By Robert Kagan
The book applauds American hegemony, not only that, it also acknowledges its necessity to stabilize the world. When everyone is questioning what is called "The war on terrorism" and sheds light on its disastrous consequences Kagan thinks that "the United States and others will have to persist in fighting what is, in fact, quite accurately called “the war on terrorism.”" He admits that this war should not be the main and only priority of American foreign policy but it is certainly crucial for the years to come. Kagan believes firmly in the United State's responsibility towards the world especially in promoting liberalism and democracy and combating terrorism.
China and Russia are challenging America's hegemony but according to Kagan that doesn't mean we are now in a mutlipolar world. What is more interesting is that the author's analysis of the rage that broke out around the world against America's policies, not because these policies were any different from America's main stream policy behaviour, but because the world after the cold world had grand expectations. Grand expectations and grand dreams which he predicts are coming to their end.
The book tackles the fundamental Islamist threat and raises the problematic question that faces the American administration of whether they should support authoritarian governments in the Middle East and other Islamic countries or give way to democracy which might result in a victory for extreme Islamic governments. Kagan examines the possibility that this is the reason behind the United States supporting non democratic governments around the Islamic world.
Kagan's analysis may be unique and would stand out from current literature but it is structured, well thought out and supported by evidence. Whether or not readers agree with the point of view presented in this book, it is highly credible.
Robert Kagan is a senior associate at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. He is a graduate of Yale University and Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government and holds a Ph.D. in American History. He served in the United States State Department from 1984 to 1988 as a member of the Policy Planning Staff. Dr. Kagan writes a monthly column on world affairs for the Washington Post.
The Return of History and the End of Dreams is his most recent book. His previous books include "Dangerous Nation: America’s Place in the World from its Earliest Days to the Dawn of the 20th Century" and "Paradise and Power" which was a New York Times bestseller.
