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Liked It “Incredibly informative. Casts a wide net over global issues in a post cold war society to connect seemingly disparate events and illustrate a frighteningly possible future” see full review » see other reviews » |
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“Incredibly informative. Casts a wide net over global issues in a post cold war society to connect seemingly disparate events and illustrate a frighteningly possible future ”
Dean M wrote this review Monday, November 23 2009. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No
“I love Robert Kaplan, but this was a bit tedious occassionally.”
Geoff R wrote this review Thursday, August 20 2009. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No
“I read this again after reading an article in Foreign Policy magazine (Axis of Upheaval, 2009). The first time I read it my reaction was: Here's a guy who's spent way too much time in ugly places. On my second reading, it seems an too possible future. Reminds me of some of Philip K. Dick's visions of the future. A thought provoker for sure.”
Terry C wrote this review Thursday, May 21 2009. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No
“The best essay in this collection is the lead essay, the title essay. He roves around the world for his topics and, although it is a little dated by now (1994), it now shifts from journalistic first-draft history to a second draft--one that gives us more perspective on the events of the 80s and 90s.
Mark V wrote this review Saturday, May 9 2009. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No
As an aside: There is a long section about western Africa in the 90s and because I had read Ishmael Beah's memoir, A Long Way Gone, last year, set in Sierra Leone, it helped in my appreciation and comprehension of those events. I recommend this book as a companion to A Long Way Gone.
Kaplan's analysis seems a little right of center to me and, although he has traveled widely and is well read, especially in ancient history, his informed opinion is well worth being exposed to as a reader. But at times I found myself being bothered by his conservatism, cloaked as hyper-rationalism. Maybe it is because I smell a Libertarian is in the room. I am not opposed to it, but I grew weary of his pontifical style. At least he didn't quote from Ayn Rand.
The other essays have loose connections around his theme that corrupt states that provide at least a modicum of safety are better than democratic societies that still have messiness. Order trumps discourse and for this I grew weary. But you read him yourself and let me know how you feel. This is just my opinion. ”
0 of 1 members found this review helpful“Robert Kaplan is a very perceptive observer and an excellent writer. He has traveled widely in many out of the way places and relates what is happening there to what we read about in the news. Very though-provoking book.”
Dave M wrote this review Wednesday, April 2 2008. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No
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