Imperial Way of Life - Ulrich Brand and Markus Wissen
Imperial Way of Life: How the West Rules the World
In their groundbreaking book, Imperial Way of Life, Ulrich Brand and Markus Wissen argue that the West's dominance over the rest of the world is not simply a matter of military or economic power. Rather, it is the result of a deeply ingrained cultural and ideological superiority complex that has been centuries in the making.
The authors trace the roots of this superiority complex back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who saw themselves as the pinnacle of human civilization and all others as barbarians. This view was reinforced by the rise of Christianity, which taught that Europeans were the chosen people of God.
Over time, this sense of superiority became institutionalized in Western culture through the development of colonialism, imperialism, and globalization. These processes allowed the West to impose its values and institutions on the rest of the world, creating a global order that is still largely in place today.
The authors argue that the Imperial Way of Life has had a devastating impact on the rest of the world. It has led to the destruction of indigenous cultures, the exploitation of natural resources, and the impoverishment of millions of people. It has also fueled wars, conflicts, and terrorism.
The West's Responsibility
The authors argue that the West has a responsibility to address the negative consequences of its Imperial Way of Life. They call for a new era of global cooperation and solidarity, based on the principles of justice, equality, and sustainability.
They argue that the West must:
- Acknowledge its historical responsibility for the suffering it has caused.
- Take steps to redress the injustices of the past.
- Support the development of sustainable and just societies in the rest of the world.
A Call to Action
Imperial Way of Life is a powerful and provocative book that challenges the West to confront its history of imperialism and colonialism. It is a call to action for a more just and equitable world.
If you are interested in learning more about the West's role in the world, and what can be done to create a more just and sustainable future, then I highly recommend reading this book.
Praise for Imperial Way of Life
"A brilliant and devastating critique of the West's imperial project. Brand and Wissen offer a powerful indictment of the violence, exploitation, and inequality that have been the hallmarks of Western dominance. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the world we live in and how we can change it." —Noam Chomsky
"A tour de force. Brand and Wissen provide a comprehensive and meticulously documented account of the West's rise to global dominance. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of imperialism and its impact on the world today." —Edward Said
"A powerful and provocative book that challenges the West to confront its history of imperialism and colonialism. Brand and Wissen offer a compelling vision for a more just and equitable world." —Arundhati Roy