The End of Pax Americana: The Loss of Empire and Hikikomori Nationalism

The End of Pax Americana by Naoki Sakai examines the decline of U.S. hegemony in East Asia and its impact on international relations. He argues that the exhaustion of Pax Americana and the post-World War II international order signifies a dislocation and decentering of European and North American political, economic, diplomatic, and intellectual influence, symbolized by the loss of old colonial empires.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 11 February 2022
Publisher: Duke University Press

In his book "The End of Pax Americana," Naoki Sakai delves into the profound and intricate history of U.S. hegemony in East Asia, exploring the far-reaching consequences of its decline on our contemporary understanding of international relations. Through his engaging analysis, Sakai examines the complex interplay between nationality, internationality, the civilizational construction of East-West differences, and the processes of empire and decolonization. Central to his study is the emergence of a unique form of nationalism known as "hikikomori," or "reclusive withdrawal," which has characterized Japan since the late 1990s. Named after the phenomenon of young people retreating from public life, hikikomori reflects Japan's increasingly inward-looking tendency, marked by a growing disinterest in engaging with the outside world.

Sakai argues that the decline of Pax Americana and the post-World War II international order, which witnessed rapid modernization in countries such as Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and China through consumer capitalism and the media revolution, signifies a significant dislocation and decentering of European and North American political, economic, diplomatic, and intellectual influence. This shift is symbolized by the loss of old colonial empires, including those of Japan, Britain, and the United States.

Sakai's book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complex dynamics that shape our global landscape, challenging us to reevaluate our assumptions about power, identity, and the future of international relations. Through his insightful analysis, he provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the changing world order and the challenges that lie ahead.

Weight: 540g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781478014911