ABSTRACT
This chapter argues the greater insights into the problem of state stability can be gained by observing the interaction between ruling elites' autonomy and the limits imposed on them by the second stratum model. It will also show the limitations of these approaches and suggest possible ways for overcoming them in the light of recent developments in the Middle East. The elite-mass model has dominated the field without any rival. As a consequence, the literature is replete with such concepts as the unincorporated society. The dichotomous elite-mass approach does not deviate significantly from the classic ruling elite model which divides societies into rulers and ruled. The instrument of rule in the hands of the dominant ruling elites is the military and government bureaucracy. Groups and classes, both of which are fundamental in the liberal and Marxist theories of development, respectively, are not counted for much, given their immature stages of development.
