| Publication |
2010.
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| Summary/Abstract |
Subjective and ideological dimensions of world politics have been marginalized in most accounts of International Relations (IR), and treatments of globalization have generally favored economic over cultural phenomena. While IR theorists have variously engaged the power of ideas, Manfred Steger is perhaps unique in his commitment to developing systematic accounts of the specifically ideational and normative dimensions of 'globalization'. In The Rise of the Global Imaginary, Steger displays to full advantage his mastery of the subject matter and ability to render in compelling - even entertaining - fashion what might otherwise appear dry or esoteric. He notes in the preface his hope of reaching a broad readership, including the curious general reader as well as academics. Melding his extensive scholarship, exceptional writing skills, and a narrative strategy of 'linked snapshots that illuminate the "big picture"', Steger succeeds in producing a very instructive yet also lively and accessible text. The book is thus a welcome resource for classroom use, expands our awareness of shifting social imaginaries, and improves our understanding of globalization as simultaneously ideational and material.
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