A World Safe for Democracy: Liberal Internationalism and the Crises of Global Order

Liberal internationalism is in crisis, threatened from the outside by illiberal challengers and from the inside by nationalist-populist movements. This book offers the first full account of its long journey from its nineteenth-century roots to the present. It argues that in a twenty-first century marked by rising economic and security interdependence, it remains the most viable project to protect liberal democracy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2023
Publisher: Yale University Press

A sweeping and comprehensive exploration of the emergence and evolution of liberal internationalism in the modern era, acclaimed as a "Best Book of 2021" by Foreign Affairs. This insightful and profound defense of liberal internationalism encompasses its role as both a political philosophy and a guide for future actions.

"A thoughtful and profound defense of liberal internationalism—both as a political philosophy and as a guide to future actions." - Gideon Rachman, Financial Times

"The crowning achievement of [Ikenberry's] decades-long work explaining and defending the liberal international order." - Michael Hirsch, Foreign Policy

For two centuries, the grand vision of liberal internationalism has been to establish a global order characterized by openness, adherence to loosely defined rules, and a commitment to progressive ideals. However, today, this project faces significant challenges on both the external and internal fronts. On the external side, illiberal challengers threaten the foundations of liberal internationalism, advocating for closed borders, authoritarianism, and protectionism. Meanwhile, nationalist-populist movements within countries challenge the established order, seeking to prioritize national interests over international cooperation and values.

In response to these challenges, G. John Ikenberry presents the first comprehensive account of liberal internationalism's long and complex journey. Spanning from its nineteenth-century roots to the present-day fractured political landscape, this timely book explores the key aims and objectives that have propelled liberal internationalism throughout its history. These include the creation of an international "space" for liberal democracy, the preservation of rights and protections within and between countries, and the delicate balancing of conflicting values such as liberty, equality, openness, social solidarity, sovereignty, and interdependence.

Ikenberry argues that in the twenty-first century, characterized by rising economic and security interdependence, liberal internationalism remains the most viable project to safeguard liberal democracy. He advocates for a reformed and reimagined version of liberal internationalism that can adapt to the changing global landscape and address the challenges posed by illiberal forces and nationalist-populist movements.

One of the key strengths of Ikenberry's book is its ability to provide a historical context for the development of liberal internationalism. He traces the origins of the concept in the aftermath of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars, highlighting the role played by Enlightenment thinkers and the emergence of the nation-state as a dominant political entity. Ikenberry also explores the challenges and setbacks that liberal internationalism faced during the twentieth century, including the rise of fascism, communism, and the Cold War, which tested the resilience and adaptability of the liberal order.

In the current political climate, where the world is increasingly interconnected and interdependent, liberal internationalism faces a critical moment. Ikenberry argues that the principles and values that underpin liberal internationalism remain relevant and essential for promoting peace, stability, and prosperity. He emphasizes the importance of international cooperation, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights, which are fundamental to building a world that is open, inclusive, and equitable.

However, Ikenberry also acknowledges the need for reform and adaptation in liberal internationalism. He recognizes that the order has faced criticism and challenges from within, particularly in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis and the subsequent rise of populism. He advocates for a more inclusive and democratic approach to international governance, where countries are encouraged to participate in decision-making processes and share responsibility for addressing global challenges.

Furthermore, Ikenberry suggests that liberal internationalism should be more responsive to the needs and concerns of developing countries. He argues that the order has often been dominated by developed countries, which have benefited from its institutions and policies while neglecting the needs and interests of developing nations. He calls for a more equitable distribution of resources, investment, and power to ensure that all countries can benefit from the benefits of globalization and economic development.

In conclusion, "The Rise and Evolution of Liberal Internationalism" is a thought-provoking and comprehensive exploration of the origins, development, and challenges of liberal internationalism. Written by one of the leading experts in the field, this book offers a valuable perspective on the past, present, and future of this important political philosophy. By advocating for reform, adaptation, and a more inclusive approach to international governance, Ikenberry provides a roadmap for building a world that is open, rules-based, and oriented toward progressive ideas.

Weight: 536g
Dimension: 236 x 156 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300271010