End of the End of History, The - Politics in the Twenty-First Century

The End of History is over, and anti-politics have emerged to threaten political establishments. Elites are suffering from Neoliberal Order Breakdown Syndrome and blaming others for their problems. The global pandemic of 2020 has put an end to the End of History. Politics is back, but it's stranger than ever.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 25 June 2021
Publisher: John Hunt Publishing

The notion that Western liberal democracy stood as the ultimate expression of human governance has been debunked as mere rhetoric. The once-dominant order is rapidly unraveling right before our very eyes. A surge of anger towards politics has emerged, posing a threat to political institutions across the globe. Elites, in a state of panic, have resorted to finger-pointing and scapegoating, assigning blame to various entities such as voters, populism, Putin, Facebook, and even extraterrestrial forces. They are grappling with a condition known as Neoliberal Order Breakdown Syndrome.

Drawing from a series of in-depth interviews and spirited debates conducted over four years on the renowned global politics podcast Aufhebunga Bunga, The End of the End of History delves into the profound political ramifications of the 2008 financial crisis. If the election of Donald Trump and the Brexit vote in 2016 shattered the liberal-democratic consensus, then the global pandemic of 2020 has effectively put an end to the End of History. Politics has re-emerged, yet it appears in a profoundly altered state.

The world has witnessed a seismic shift in global power dynamics, with the United States experiencing a decline in influence and the emergence of new actors on the international stage. The COVID-19 pandemic has further amplified these changes, highlighting the interconnectedness of nations and the urgent need for cooperation and collaboration. At the same time, the pandemic has exposed deep-seated social and economic inequalities, fueling social unrest and political polarization.

The political landscape is characterized by a growing sense of uncertainty and unpredictability. Populist movements have gained momentum, challenging established political institutions and advocating for a return to traditional values and policies. The rise of authoritarianism in certain regions has raised concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and human rights. The digital age has transformed the way politics is conducted, with social media platforms playing a significant role in shaping public opinion and mobilizing citizens.

In conclusion, the End of History is over, and a new era of political uncertainty and transformation has begun. The old order is crumbling, and angry anti-politics have arisen to threaten political establishments across the world. Elites are grappling with a crisis of their own creation, blaming voters, populism, Putin, Facebook, and other external factors for their failures. The global pandemic of 2020 has further accelerated this process, highlighting the need for a recalibration of political priorities and a renewed commitment to democratic values and human rights. As we navigate this new landscape, it is essential to remain vigilant, engaged, and committed to building a more inclusive and equitable world.

Weight: 208g
Dimension: 140 x 214 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789045239