The U.S. and its’ allies continue to share a belief in freedom and democracy, but differences are beginning to emerge on other critical issues… even those related to the future of Ukraine.
New York Times opinion writer Tom Friedman wrote sometime ago that the world is flat, suggesting that anyone with a laptop could now have global influence. Since then digital technology and the proliferation of social media platforms have created a world of misinformation and widespread confusion… a world that we now must reinvent.
In his new book, Ian Bremmer, founder and CEO of the Eurasia Group, describes how globalism should be reinvented. He lists three big issues that cannot be avoided by every country in the world, small and large:
1. Coming pandemics and other contagious diseases; these can be better managed worldwide simply from the lessons we have already learned.
2. The international ravages of climate change; dangerous extreme weather events producing physical damage will continue to get worse.
3. Endless technology disruptions; most especially artificial intelligence (AI) confusing what is real and what is not.
In addition to dealing with these big issues, Bremmer also sees dangerous conflicts developing between the two super powers: China and the U.S. He therefore suggests that the U.S. and China will only avoid eventual war by agreeing now to compete mostly on trade policies and activities.
Very strong institutions will be necessary to address these and other issues. The United Nations, the World Health Organization, and the World Bank must be strengthened, and some new ones will also no doubt be needed. The day when the U.S can lead the world is over. Institutions must take the place of relying on countries.
Larry D. Lauer 
Hope you are considering teaching another Silver Frogs class this fall. It would be timely. Nancy >
Yes I am. I think it will be 4 Wednesdays am beginning Sept 12.
Your identification of arenas for needed globalization suggests something that concerns me.
I’ve been thinking about the growing appeal of tyranny — of countries (e.g., Hungary, Turkey, Israel?, Russia?) that had a taste of and opportunity for democratization, but who have turned back to what the West long regarded as their benighted traditions of subservience. Even the U.S. seems to be developing an appetite for the kind of government that “makes the trains run on time” — no matter what the cost to personal freedom. Do you think this suggests some genetic impulse emerging that is designed to “save” our species from itself? ________________________________
Good questions. Autocracy has an appeal for some political minority groups. Polls indicate the public favors freedom and democracy in the U.S. In the countries you list the situation is indeed problematic.
I am working on a post now that asks can Putin win. I think the answer depends on how much aid NATO can continue to give to Ukraine, and how long it takes for the for the Internet to really piss off the younger generation!
Not a very encouraging scenario. Hopefully those with wisdom and courage will help solve these seemingly impossible challenges.