Praise of empires

Globalization is not a new phenomenon, but one that has always been associated in the past with empires. Far from being a negative force, globalization provides the promise of global prosperity, while empires provide the peace and stability in world order and the protection of trade and commerce that are essential for global economic development.

In Praise of Empires argues that not since the fall of the Roman empire has there been a potential imperial power like the United States today, and asks the question: Is a US impirium needed for the globalization which breeds prosperity? What form should this empire take - a direct 'colonial' or 'indirect' empire? Will America be able and willing to run an empire? Although the world needs a US empire, and the US has the military ability to run one, would US domestic politics support this? Would the US tendency to see itself as a moral nation pursuing 'universal values' such as democracy, equality and rights run into resistance from other non-western Christian societies?

In this timely and controversial book, economist Deepak Lal explores the twin themes of empires and globalization and discusses the place of the US in the current world order.