The Geometry of Conflict: Mapping
Stability in the Middle East.
Requirements:
1. Research Paper:
◦Introduction: What causes conflict? And why do some Middle Eastern states remain stable while
others face repeated conflict?
◦Historical Foundations: Explain any Middle Eastern war thoroughly then elaborate what caused them,
what changes could be seen in the region, and what change did it cause internationally.
◦What part does religion play in the Middle East? And is it a driver of conflict in the region? If so, how
and why? Explain with examples.
◦How does the Middle East contribute to the World Economy (specific focus on oil and shipping
routes)? And how do major external powers influence the economy and political stability of selected
Middle Eastern countries?
◦Stability Formula (What is stability, how can we measure it, and what affects it?)
2. 3D map model showing color-coded conflict risk of The Middle East
3. 5-10 minute explanation on the project
4. Visuals:
◦3 graphs
◦Alliance chart(s)
◦1 conflict timeline
5. Python program capable of calculating risk of conflict (E.g. Random but high possibility of country-x
invading country-y due to ideological differences.)
6. OPTIONAL: Scenario Simulation (E.g. What happens if oil price drops sharply? What effect will it
have on the Middle East and its economical and geopolitical status?)
Rules:
1. To keep research manageable, pick 3-5 countries to work with.
2. Make the project straight forward without too many parts (E.g. Make it just contain: a Research
Paper, a 3d model, 5 visual data models, 1 virtual program capable of data modelling/calculating, a
scenario simulation side-paper, and lastly a small speech on this project).
3. Avoid burnouts, don’t work all day-everyday.