The End of the American Era (US Foreign Policy and Geopolitics in the 21st Century)

Author: Charles Kupchan
Publisher:
Publication Date: 2004-06-01
Features: A popular view holds that the end of the Cold War gave the United States absolute supereconomic and military power, destined to lead the in the new century. In this book's extensive discussion, Charles Kupchan exposes the flaws of traditional thinking and reveals that the Cold War's end did not herald America's final victory but the beginning of its decline as a global hegemon. He argues that the challenges to the United States are rapidly forming, neither coming from the Islamic world nor from the rising China, but from the integrating Europe. The European economy has already gained parity with the U.S. economy, and as the EU acquires influence matching its economic standing, it will inevitably rise to challenge the United States. The United States and Europe are parting ways, with their divergences far exceeding trade issues. The decades-long strategic partnership between the U.S. and Europe is giving way to a new geopolitical competitive relationship. Kupchan points out that growing domestic resentment in the U.S. over the burdens of acting as a global guardian is accelerating the erosion of America's dominance. While interest in international engagement has temporarily revived amid terrorism, its decline is irreversible. Instead, Americans' aversion to overseas involvement is resurfacing. The preference for unilateral action among Americans has also regained traction. In the midst of increasing integration, Washington needs to cooperate with partners and allies, yet the U.S. is drifting farther away from them. The digital age will profoundly reshape American politics and alter the scope and nature of the U.S. role in global politics. In the 21st century, the world will witness not the end of history but the end of the American era. By skillfully drawing on historical lessons and looking ahead, Kupchan explains how the United States and other nations should navigate the more unpredictable and unstable global system ahead. The End of American Era is timely and highly persuasive, and it will occupy a significant place among important works on geopolitics.