The Sociology of the Gulf Rentier Systems: Societies of Intermediaries (original) (raw)

The paper explores the phenomenon of brokerage in Gulf Rentier states, characterized by intermediaries who facilitate access to state resources. It argues that the unique conditions of rentier economies—abundant resources coupled with limited state capacity—foster the emergence of these brokers. Through qualitative research and sector-specific quantitative estimates, the work outlines various brokerage positions across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, compares them with non-rentier contexts, and suggests implications for understanding state-society relations in these societies.