The problems faced by the nation of Lebanon reflect those that confront all multiethnic societies. In this volume, Nazih Richani examines the intricacies of Lebanese political life in order to unearth what it might teach us about such societies and the Middle East in general. Richani provides an in-depth study of the political sociology and behavior of the Progressive Socialist Party (PSP), one of Lebanon's most important political parties.

Richani explains how a party is constructed in a multiethnic society, shows how social composition influences the decisions made by, as well as the dynamics of, a party, and answers the questions, What affects a party's development? How do leaders interpret and adjust to these developments? and How do these developments alter the party's proclaimed views and - ultimately - its goals?