Analysis Of John Lewis Gaddis Setting Right A Dangerous World

“One World” is an article that appeared in The Economist, a British newspaper, that analyzed globalization and its effects on the world (“One World” 378). “Setting RIght a Dangerous World” was written in 2002 by John Lewis Gaddis, and it analyzes the effects of the 9/11 attacks and suggests a different direction in America’s international relations (Gaddis 385). The world at the end of the Cold War seems to be somewhat unsure of its future. For example, “One World” acknowledges the occurrence of globalization, but expresses uncertainty about its extent and effects. Technology today is advancing at such a rapid pace that no one knows what its long-term effects and progression will be. In “Setting Right a Dangerous World”, Gaddis contends that

A lot of things have changed as a result of the 9/11 attacks, such as increased security at airports and a frightened outlook Most of the changes in foreign policy that he discusses do not seem to affect my daily life. For example, the American government seeking justice for Kosovars probably doesn’t affect me directly. However, they affect my country and so they are still important. Gaddis argues that to maintain an anti-terror coalition, we must accept that not all nations are going to have the same beliefs as we do (389). A changing foreign policy that focuses less on “Americanizing” our allies and more on advancing our common interests would be beneficial to national security, and thus help keep me and my nation safe. If Gaddis’ foreign policy suggestions are implemented and are effective, they could have a tremendous impact on my

“One World” pointed out that globalization has “the potential to boost productivity” by “allowing low-wage countries to specialise in labour-intensive tasks while high-wage countries use worker in more productive ways”. I was intrigued by this suggestion because I had not considered it before, but it is valid and plausible. “One World” discussed a negative aspect of globalization when it explained that some think it will cause countries to reduce important services for their citizens to be more competitive (“One World 378). I was concerned by this viewpoint because I would hate for quality of life to decline as a result of increased global-integration. I also found it interesting when the article pointed out that globalization is not quite as significant as some make it seem because domestic trade is still much more prominent and most people work within their own country (“One World” 378-379). Although this article was written twenty-one years ago, it made some accurate predictions about the future. As it explained, electronic communication, the internet, and similar technologies are increasing the speed of globalization and having a profound effect on society. As I read Gaddis’ article, I agreed with most of his assertions. I saw the logic in his argument that our foreign policies post-9/11 had to be radically changed to prevent future catastrophes (386). Gaddis’ ominous statement that, “...Americans