Hinnebusch (international relations and Middle East politics, U. of St. Andrew's, Scotland) and Schmidt (researcher, Danish Institute of International Studies) document economic development in Syria under the Ba'th, with the former author exploring the Populist period from 1963 to 2000 and the latter focusing on the years since. The authors analyze both the obstructions and enhancements to economic growth under these two distinct periods in Syria's history, and determine the successes and failure of populist authoritarianism and patrimonial rule during the transition. Although relatively brief in length, this book should encourage meaningful discussions among scholars and historians about the future of the Syrian economy. Distributed by Lynne Rienner Publishers, Inc. Annotation ⓒ2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)