Lexington Books Civilizations and World Order: Geopolitics and Cultural Difference (Global Encounters: Studies in Comparative Political Theory)

Civilizations and World Order: Geopolitics and Cultural Difference examines the role of civilizations in the context of the existing and possible world order(s) from a cross-cultural and inter-disciplinary perspective. Contributions seek to clarify the meaning of such complex and contested notions as "civilization," "order," and "world order"; they do so by taking into account political, economic, cultural, and philosophical dimensions of social life. The book deals with its main theme from three angles or vectors: first, the geopolitical or power-political context of civilizations; secondly, the different roles of civilizations or cultures against the backdrop of "post-coloniality" and "Orientalism"; and thirdly, the importance of ideological and regional differences as factors supporting or obstructing world order(s). All in all, the different contributions demonstrate the impact of competing civilizational trajectories on the functioning or malfunctioning of contemporary world order. Review Every so often a book comes our way which challenges us to think outside the box. This rich collection of essays does just that. Each author, while reflecting his own distinctive philosophical and cultural standpoint, addresses two questions which go to the heart of our current predicament. Given the steady decline of Western political and cultural hegemony side by side with accelerating globalization, what are the prospects of constructing a relatively peaceful world order? Is civilizational difference part of the problem or part of the solution? The answers are diverse, often provocative, and invariably insightful.--Joseph A. Camilleri, La Trobe University These chapters provide a single powerful message: to understand each other is often difficult and demanding, but it is by far the most profitable strategy for international politics. And it is ultimately intellectually rewarding.--Daniele Archibugi, University of London About the Author Fred Dallmayr is Packey J. Dee Professor Emeritus in philosophy and political science at the University of Notre Dame. Akif Kayapinar is assistant professor of political science and international relations at Istanbul Sehir University. Ismail Yaylaci is a doctoral candidate in political science at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.