Summaries of books about International Relations:
Should We Fear Russia?
Dmitri Trenin
The book presents an analysis of Russia's international relations, military capabilities, and geopolitical ambitions, examining whether its actions and policies pose a genuine threat to the West. It delves into the historical context of Russia's strategic behavior and assesses the implications for global security and the potential for future conflict or cooperation.
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The New Asian Hemisphere
The Irresistible Shift of Global Power to the East
Kishore Mahbubani
The book argues that the economic and political power is shifting towards Asia as countries like China and India experience rapid growth and increased influence on the global stage. It discusses the implications of this power shift for the West and the need for a new understanding of international relations in a world where Asian perspectives are becoming more dominant.
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Disaster Capitalism
Making a Killing Out of Catastrophe
Antony Loewenstein
The book investigates how governments, corporations, and investors capitalize on crises and disasters to reap profits, often at the expense of those affected. It explores the privatization of public services, the exploitation of natural resources, and the impact on local populations in the aftermath of wars, natural disasters, and economic collapses.
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The Struggle for Catalonia
Rebel Politics in Spain
Raphael Minder
The book delves into the historical and contemporary political dynamics of Catalonia's push for independence from Spain, examining the cultural, economic, and social factors that fuel the separatist movement. It provides an in-depth analysis of the key events and figures that shape the ongoing debate over Catalan sovereignty and its implications for the future of Spain and Europe.
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The Real Politics of the Horn of Africa
Money, War and the Business of Power
Alex de Waal
The book delves into the political economy of the Horn of Africa, revealing how a complex web of patronage networks fueled by money and resources underpins the region's persistent conflicts and power struggles. It examines the roles of local and international actors in perpetuating a "political marketplace," where loyalties and allegiances are bought and sold, shaping the dynamics of war and peace.
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Unbalanced
The Codependency of America and China
Stephen Roach
The book examines the complex and interdependent economic relationship between the United States and China, highlighting the risks and imbalances that arise from America's reliance on Chinese goods and China's dependence on US markets and debt. It discusses the potential consequences of this codependency for global economic stability and offers insights into how both nations might work towards a more balanced and sustainable partnership.
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The World's Banker
A Story of Failed States, Financial Crises, and the Wealth and Poverty of Nations
Sebastian Mallaby
The book provides an in-depth look at the history and inner workings of the World Bank, exploring its role in international development and the challenges it faces in addressing global poverty. It examines the Bank's impact on failed states and financial crises, and scrutinizes the complex relationship between the world's wealth and poverty.
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Failure to Adjust
How Americans Got Left Behind in the Global Economy
Edward Alden
The book examines the United States' struggle to adapt to the rising challenges of globalization, including the loss of jobs and declining competitiveness in the global market. It explores the policy failures that have hindered American workers and businesses, and suggests reforms to help the country better manage the forces of economic change.
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Greenspan's Fraud
How Two Decades of His Policies Have Undermined the Global Economy
Ravi Batra
The book critically examines the economic policies of former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan, arguing that his approach led to financial crises and income inequality. It presents a case that Greenspan's deregulatory stance and monetary policy decisions were detrimental to the stability and fairness of the global economy.
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The China Price
The True Cost of Chinese Competitive Advantage
Alexandra Harney
The book investigates the economic and social consequences of China's manufacturing practices, revealing the harsh realities of labor conditions, environmental impact, and the sacrifices made for low-cost production. It delves into personal stories and on-the-ground research to expose the hidden costs behind China's ability to offer goods at "the China price."
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