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In this book, the author attempts to debunk some myths about Western exceptionalism and to evaluate critically the characteristics that make the West superior to the Rest. The author suggests that the West does not represent a homogenous group of countries and that the most common characteristic of the core Western countries is imperialism. The author goes on to provide a detailed critique of the proclaimed characteristics of Western countries, including democracy, human rights, judicial independence, transparency, the rule of law, and exclusive contribution to science and technology. A critique is presented of the views expressed by Samuel Huntington, Francis Fukuyama, and Niall Ferguson, arguing that they do not recognize the historical fact that civilizations rise and fall. It is argued that the Western economic system, which is based on neoliberalism, has adverse consequences for democracy, morality, and peace, as well as inequality, poverty, and homelessness. Written in a simple but powerful language, this book is a must read for those interested in international relations and anyone interested in current affairs.
List of contents
1. The Ambiguous West.- 2. Western Exceptionalism as an Ideology.- 3. Western Exceptionalism: Democracy.- 4. Western Exceptionalism: The Rule of Law, Judicial Independence and Transparency.- 5. Western Exceptionalism: Human Rights.- 6. Western Exceptionalism: Contribution to Science and Technology.- 7. Western Supremacy: The Views of Huntington, Fukuyama and Ferguson.- 8. The Western Economic System.- 9. Further Thoughts on Western Exceptionalism.
About the author
Imad Moosa is Professor of Economics at Kuwait University. He has also held academic positions at RMIT, Monash University, La Trobe University, and the University of Sheffield. He has published 31 books and over 250 papers in scholarly journals. His latest books are about the Economics of COVID-19, Fintech, and Financialization.
