The clash of the civilization - Book Report/Review Example

The clash Order 507600 Topic: the clash of the civilization Rapid technological advances and the internet revolution have contributed much to make the concept of ‘the world is one family’ an attainable reality—but is it really happening in the real sense? World Wars I and II left behind them shattered nations and power blocks and divided many countries geographically. Many countries witnessed the remaking of the world order, either through choice or compulsion. Samuel P. Huntington articulates how world politics is entering a new phase.

He convincingly elucidates that in this new phase, the areas of conflicts will not be primarily ideological or economic (two of the major ideologies, capitalism and communism have lost their fighting punch) A great force, that has strong bearing on the emotions of the people—culture—will impact the future relations amongst the nation states. This impact will obstruct peaceful relations. He writes about the dramatic post Cold War changes in the identities of the people. How culture dominates global politics.

He identifies the contending major cultures, which have begun to cast their influence on world politics. They are Western Eastern Orthodox, Latin American, Islamic, Japanese, Chinese, Hindu and African. Huntington’s observation about the emerging situation is correct. His concept of civilizations is perfect. He has divided the world, without the actual geographical division on the basis of culture. His elaboration about modernization, that it is not tantamount to westernization, is also the correct assessment.

He mentions how economic progress is linked to revival of religion and the importance of ethnic nationalism over political ideologies. He takes exception to Islamic fundamentalism and why the nations should view Islamic threat seriously. He condemns its unaccommodating nature. As for America, he finds multiculturalism may lead to alarming situations and for the West as a whole, it is a cultural suicide. In the thick of political discussions what I appreciate about Huntington is that he doesn’t miss the important economic issues-the impact of globalization and the internet revolution.

He states that in today’s highly networked world of global trade, civilizations are forced in to ever closer contact. His warning about the Islamic fundamentalism is based on facts. Works Cited Huntington, Samuel P. The Clash of Civilizations and the Remaking of World Order. Simon & Schuster; 1 edition, January 28, 1998.