Advanced Sultanism: A Broader Debate

Abstract

The second of two summary discussions, this chapter firstly assesses the likely longevity and stability of MBS and MBZ’s ‘advanced sultanates’. In particular, it notes their apparent strength, while also considering possible dangers they may face alongside some of the more peaceful forms of activity that could also result in regime change. Secondly, it contemplates the possibilities for such advanced sultanism to replicate elsewhere in the world. In particular, it notes that replication may prove difficult (though not impossible) in other contemporary sultanates given their lack of rentier state legacies and poorer access to advanced economies and consultants Nonetheless, it notes that MBS and MBZ may seek to promote—or perhaps diffuse—repressive aspects of their regimes elsewhere in the region, especially if Saudi and UAE diplomatic support and economic aid can be tied to the adoption of MBS and MBZ’s signature policies. Finally, the chapter discusses the relevance of MBS and MBZ’s advanced sultanism to several broader issues, including: the debate on Islam’s supposed incompatibility with capitalism (which their regimes seem to contradict); the prospects for modernization theory (which their regimes also seem to contradict); and--more philosophically--the extent which their regimes may complicate global intellectual support for monarchy.