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  • The Tragedy of Great Power Politics

  • Written by: John J. Mearsheimer
  • Narrated by: Mark Ashby
  • Length: 16 hrs and 14 mins
  • 4.3 out of 5 stars (12 ratings)

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The Tragedy of Great Power Politics

Written by: John J. Mearsheimer
Narrated by: Mark Ashby
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Publisher's Summary

A decade after the cold war ended, policy makers and academics foresaw a new era of peace and prosperity, an era in which democracy and open trade would herald the "end of history." The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, sadly shattered these idyllic illusions, and John Mearsheimer's masterful new book explains why these harmonious visions remain utopian.

To Mearsheimer, great power politics are tragic because the anarchy of the international system requires states to seek dominance at one another's expense, dooming even peaceful nations to a relentless power struggle. Mearsheimer illuminates his theory of offensive realism through a sweeping survey of modern great power struggles and reflects on the bleak prospects for peace in Europe and northeast Asia, arguing that the United States's security competition with a rising China will intensify regardless of "engagement" policies.

©2001 John J. Mearsheimer (P)2013 Audible, Inc.

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  • J
  • 2023-11-12

modern classic that everyone interested in international relations and politics should pick up - BUT

An interesting, informative modern update to the classical realist theory of international relations. BUT this audio book is not a reading of the updated edition of the book, written a dozen years after the original was published and which now contains an extra chapter on the rise of China - which is no longer conjecture, but reality. It’s a shame Audible does not carry the updated edition.

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Necessary Read

Anyone who wants to have a good understanding of international relations theory and geopolitics needs to read this.

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  • Dan
  • 2023-06-01

great listen

bit repetitive and could be a hit shorter but good listen for those looking to strengthen their understanding of history and realpolitik.

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