Nomadic pastoralists, agriculturalists and the state: self- sufficiency and dependence in the Middle-East

The article traces phases and patterns of relationships engaging nomad pastoralists (P), agriculturalists (A) and the state (S) in the Middle East from historic times until recent decades. The symbiosis between (P) and (A) could enhance the welfare of both. This was based on exchange of services and goods which were affected by vicissitudes of climate and fluctuations in the fertility of soils and herds. This gave way to a third part, (S), to supervise the results of agreements. The balance of power between the three parties was marked by three main phases: a totally weak (S); a neither weak nor strong (S); a strong (S). This third and last phase predominates since the beginning of this century. The organizational strength of the nomad pastoralists could be maintained so long as they were on a peripheral position far away from the center. -Author