Why the West Rules—for Now
The Patterns of History, and What They Reveal About the Future
by:
Ian Morris
in:
Ancient History
Summary:
The book examines the historical patterns of social development across civilizations, arguing that geographical and environmental factors largely shape the distribution of power. It explores the rise of the West in comparison to the East and suggests that current global trends may lead to a significant shift in global power dynamics.
Key points:
1. Social Development Index: Morris uses a Social Development Index to compare East and West development. The index includes energy capture, organization, information technology, and war-making capacity. He argues the West has been more developed for the past 500 years.
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