In most accounts of the diplomacy of the Arab–Israeli conflict, Jordan has been neglected, ignored, or taken for granted. Perhaps this is the fate of small states, especially those with moderate and reasonable leaders. Politicians understandably pay more attention to big powers with big voices. But scholars have also neglected Jordan. Few serious books exist on either Jordan's internal or foreign policies. This is unfortunate in light of the important role Jordan has played in recent Middle East history.

Jordan deserves attention in its own right. Among Arab states of the Middle East, it has achieved an impressive level of social and economic development without the benefit of rich natural resources. Located in a turbulent part of the world, it has managed to survive as an independent state. Compared to many in the region, Jordan has provided its citizens with a degree of stability, security and well-being.

Jordan is worth studying for another reason. In many ways it provides a microcosm in which one can see most of the currents that affect the wider Middle East. Jordan feels the effects of Arab nationalism, Palestinianism, and Islamism. It is a policy based on a traditional formula for legitimacy, but contains a modern, Westernized sector of impressive dimensions. Jordan's neighbours – Israel, Syria, Iraq and Saudi Arabia – each confront it with special challenges. Each is more powerful and each puts pressure on its Hashemite neighbour. But Jordan has survived and even prospered in this dangerous environment.