Middle Class and Political Stability in Jordan since 1999

Abstract

Across generations, political stability has been a concept of great significance in the economic growth which, in return, has a great impact on the social classes in a country, especially the middle class. In the same vein, the middle class is considered a driving force in ensuring a stable pace of economic development and a cornerstone for the political stability in a society. Hence, there are reciprocal effects between the middle class and political stability, that is what this paper attempts to explore. The purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of political stability on the middle class in Jordan since 1999, and to conclude in what extent this political factor is a condition for a stable middle class in Jordan. The study depends on both descriptive and statistical approaches, using a questionnaire as an essential tool for collecting the data needed. The Findings of the study have shown that the political reforms in Jordan have caused the middle classes not to play their roles, as well as economic declining has led to an increasing in the number of the poor, and finally that the political stability in Jordan helps not to marginalize the role of middle-class. Furthermore, the study ensures, in its recommendations, the necessity of activating the role of the middle class in political life and in achieving sustainable development. Moreover, it is highly recommended for a society to pay attention to the distribution of income among its strata in accordance with economic measures.