This year, Modern Middle East History was added to the Shipley History Department’s growing repertoire of course offerings, which includes classes like Russia and Contemporary Europe, and Modern Chinese and Japanese History. “After 9/11,” reflects Simpson, “it was obvious that we needed to have a senior elective about the modern Middle East.”

“I was very enthusiastic to teach the course because I’ve been fascinated by the subject for a long time,” says Simpson. “It’s incredibly intellectually satisfying.”

The year-long senior seminar for juniors and seniors focuses primarily on the 20th century. The first half of the year has been devoted to straight history, which students investigate through primary sources and textbooks, as well as by discussing current events. During the second semester, students will examine cultural aspects of the Middle East by studying literature and film.

Simpson acknowledges that the Middle East is a sensitive—and complex—subject. “The American viewpoint tries to simplify it,” he says. “But you’re putting yourself in a weak position by simplifying it.” He points out the numerous complexities—oil and the global economy, Islamic fundamentalism, opposing political systems, ethnic and religious divisions—that shape the current situation in the Middle East. “I hope my students come away with a sense of the complexity. You can’t make any broad, sweeping generalizations that make any sense. All I can do is introduce students to the depth and nuances.”

Simpson sees this understanding as an integral part of Shipley’s mission. “If Shipley’s model is one of compassionate participation in the world, students will be better able to do that if they have an understanding of how complex the world is than if they approach it with a simplified model. If you make an effort to understand, you’re in a better position to make a positive impact. If you familiarize yourself with the questions, you’ll be better able to deal with them. I don’t think Shipley students would want to approach the world in a simplified way.”