The Collapse of Global Liberalism by Philip Pilkington
"The Collapse of Global Liberalism" by Philip Pilkington presents a critical analysis of the liberal international order that gained prominence in the 1990s. Pilkington argues that the vision of a globalized, frictionless world driven by a tech-based service economy and governed by a rules-based liberal order was fundamentally flawed. He suggests that this vision has led to the creation of financialized economies and societies that are struggling to sustain themselves, both demographically and in terms of energy needs.
Pilkington contends that the United States and the United Kingdom, as key proponents of this liberal order, are now facing significant challenges in competing with countries like China, which operate under different political and economic paradigms. He posits that the emerging global order prioritizes industrial capacity, realpolitik, and military strength over the liberal ideals that have dominated Western politics.
The book calls for a reevaluation of Western strategies, advocating for a shift towards a more pragmatic and realistic approach that Pilkington terms "post-liberalism." This approach would involve abandoning the idealistic aspects of liberalism in favor of policies that emphasize industrial strength and geopolitical realism.
Pilkington's work is presented as a necessary critique for those interested in understanding the current geopolitical landscape and the challenges facing Western nations. It offers a bold agenda for renewal, urging policymakers and observers to reconsider the foundational assumptions of the liberal order and adapt to the changing global dynamics.
