Rooted Globalism: Arab-Latin American Business Elites and the Politics of Global Imaginaries

The concept of nationality applies to the economic elite, who have shed national identities to form a global capitalist class. Rooted Globalism by Kevin Funk explores how Latin America's urban-based, Arab-descendant elite class navigates their Arab ancestry, Latin American host cultures, and roles as protagonists of globalization.

Format: Hardback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 18 October 2022
Publisher: Indiana University Press

In his book "Rooted Globalism," Kevin Funk delves into the intricate dynamics of the urban-based, Arab-descendant elite class in Latin America, exploring their complex identities and their roles as protagonists of globalization. Through extensive fieldwork, Funk sheds light on how these elites navigate their Arab ancestry, Latin American host cultures, and their influential positions in countries like Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. By employing the term "rooted globalism," Funk captures the emergence of classed intersectional identities that are simultaneously local, national, transnational, and global.

Funk's book offers a detailed analysis of the identities, worldviews, and motivations of this group, highlighting the ways in which they shape and are shaped by the globalized landscape. By focusing on the oft-ignored axis of South-South relations (between Latin America and the Arab world), Funk provides a fresh perspective on the dynamics of globalization and its impact on national identities.

One of the key insights of "Rooted Globalism" is that global capitalism relies on the existence of national identities rather than obliterating them. Funk argues that the urban-based, Arab-descendant elite class in Latin America has developed a unique identity that blends elements of their Arab heritage, Latin American culture, and their global connections. This identity is shaped by a range of factors, including historical legacies, social structures, and economic opportunities.

The elites in Latin America are often referred to as "Arab-Latinos" or "Arab-Americans," but Funk challenges these labels and emphasizes the diversity within this group. He highlights the different experiences and perspectives of individuals within the elite class, from those who have fully embraced their Arab heritage to those who have integrated into Latin American society. Funk's analysis reveals that these elites are not a monolithic entity but rather a complex and diverse group with a range of political, social, and economic interests.

Despite their diverse backgrounds, Funk argues that the urban-based, Arab-descendant elite class in Latin America shares a common set of values and beliefs that contribute to their influence and power. These values include a strong sense of entrepreneurship, a commitment to social justice, and a belief in the power of education and innovation. Funk also notes that these elites are often at the forefront of efforts to promote economic development, social inclusion, and cultural exchange in their countries and beyond.

However, Funk's book also raises important questions about the challenges and complexities associated with the emergence of rooted globalism. One of the key concerns is the potential for these elites to become disconnected from their local communities and to prioritize their interests over those of their countries. Funk argues that the urban-based, Arab-descendant elite class in Latin America has the potential to become a powerful force for change, but it is important that they remain accountable to their local communities and work towards the greater good of society.

Another challenge is the impact of global capitalism on national identities. Funk argues that global capitalism has the potential to create new forms of inequality and exploitation, particularly in developing countries. He highlights the ways in which multinational corporations and financial institutions can exploit local resources and labor, leading to social and economic unrest. Funk calls for greater regulation and oversight of global capitalism to ensure that it benefits all members of society, rather than just a select few.

In conclusion, "Rooted Globalism" by Kevin Funk is a thought-provoking and insightful book that provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the complex dynamics of globalization and its impact on national identities. Through his ethnographic interviews with the urban-based, Arab-descendant elite class in Latin America, Funk sheds light on the emergence of classed intersectional identities that are simultaneously local, national, transnational, and global. He challenges traditional narratives of globalization and reveals that global capitalism relies on the existence of national identities rather than obliterating them. While the book raises important questions about the challenges and complexities associated with rooted globalism, it also offers a hopeful vision for a more inclusive and equitable global society.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780253062536