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Re: The end of Pax Americana?
ER — (archived)

Excellent analysis.

I studied Mackinder and geopolitics extensively when I was in grad school, and Mahan because of my interest in sea power (he is extensively taught at the US Naval Academy). Although I have my reservations about just how insightful their theories were, I have no doubt how influential they have been with world leaders (which in the long run may turn out to mean the same thing.)

If there is one thing history has taught us, is that all world empires eventually lose dominance, but they don't necessarily collapse totally. The Hellenistic empire of Alexander eventually fell to Rome, just as the British Empire was eclipsed by the USA. In either case, the parent civilization had much to contribute to its successor, and the world, in fact, they may have had their finest hour. Even China and Egypt rose and fell several times during their long histories.

It's not the end of history. It appears to be right on schedule.

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