[Delacon]

I don't recall when I bought the book "Clash of Civilizations". It was around a decade ago, and sits dog eared on my shelf. Its of the "egghead writes a reasonably accessible book" variety. Up there with Hawking's "Brief History of Time". It is a great and prescient book. For those that don't have the time or inclination to read it, here is the article that the book was based on. Great article. Mr. Huntington, RIP.

[bcsco]

Mark

[ImpBill]

You mean that after January 20th the whole world isn't going to join hands and sing Coca Cola song?

Bet you thought I was going to say Kumbaia!

On a serious note a good read, but just as a simple and I mean simple student of history there will still be wars based upon economics, which might be cast as being drawn along Civilization lines, but about wealth and power none the less. It is the human condition.

[SuperLuminal]

bttt

[freeangel]

I have trouble equating a “cultural entity” with “civilization”. Maybe it’s just that I think that a civilization should be civil and not sub-human.

[flowerplough]

Sounds like the post-literate West has allowed its immigrant influx to drag us all backward a century or three. Twain wouldn’t be surprised.

[gandalftb]

All conflict relies on the wealth of the opponenets. That is, the wealth in regards of treasure, blood, and boldness.

Extremism only frames the picture, providing it's perimeter only. The underlying culture may assimilate that extemism to some degree, but will always march towards a vision of the future that indicates the most benefit.

Wealth generated by globalism and consumerism will always drive demand and productivity. Those cultures that demand efficiency, innovation, and conservation of wealth will dominate.

All other factors will stand in the shadows, including tribalism and religion.

[rmlew]

I just finished reading Who Are We: The Challenges to America's National Identity last month. I strongly suggest it.

Regarding Clash of Civilizations, Huntington makes some serious errors.
1) Japan is not a Sinic nation. It is its own civilization. Its only companion would be Korea, but Japans previous occupation of this motherland precludes this. As a periphery civ, it chooses to align itself with the US for historic reasons, not the least of which is fear of China.
2) Orthodox Civilization is not a rival to the West anymore. In 50 to 100 years, Russia will be Muslim. Its former colonies will join Europe.

[50cal Smokepole]

bflr