Power of a Third Kind: The Western Attempt to Colonize the Global Village

By S. Mitcham and Hisham M. Nazer

This thought-provoking book points out that the most significant change in international relations in the 20th century was not the defeat of communism, nor the end of the Cold War, but the huge advances in communications technologies. Hisham Nazer, a leading Saudi Arabian intellectual and petroleum industry leader, argues that the West has used its control over these capabilities to superimpose its cultural and political values on the rest of the world. CNN, films and television, and the Internet have become the means of promoting Western products--including soft drinks, detergents, and even the ideals of democracy and human rights--in relatively powerless non-Western nations. This process of creating a global culture through the propagation of Western political and philosophical constructs as world brands poses grave dangers for the entire international community. As countries become aware of their exploitation, the possibilities for frustration and violence become increasingly real.

Power of a Third Kind is directed toward Western and non-Western leaders alike. For the former, it provides a new perspective from outside the mirror of our Western culture, pointing out that current practices are actually endangering the security of our hemisphere. The author calls on Western leaders to work on a dialogue with other societies as an alternative to exporting to them a monologue designed for passive absorption. And for the latter, this book will inspire them to steer out of their current course in time to protect their histories and the integrity of their cultures. Through meaningful dialogue, well-meaning nations will find a way for the most beneficial aspects of Western culture--self-rule and basic human rights--to evolve within the context of local cultures, resulting in a world both more stable and more humane.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0275964892
• ISBN13: 9780275964894
• Release Date: August 1999
• Publisher: Praeger
• Length: 200 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.4" x 9.4"

Customer Reviews

Thought provoking and filled with insight.

Hisham Nazer exposes the hubris of American political and cultural policy, and reveals the accompanying risks. This should be required reading for anyone in foreign affairs, international business, or anyone travelling outside the United States. Understanding his message could prevent conflict and suffering, and could help us enjoy people and cultures, while learning to appreciate that their differences are to be valued, not just overwhelmed.

Nazer's book is great!!

Power of a Third Kind is a stunning work of intellectual prowess. The author speaks from a position of experience and it shows. Anyone who wants an insider view of the world order and political tides of the twenty-first century MUST read it!

Read it w/Thomas Friedman's and Lester Thurow's new books!

Power of a Third Kind offers a fresh perspective on the rapid changes in global communications, going beyond the ubiquitous glowing endorsements of its future benefits toward a more thoughtful analysis of its political implications. Taken from the unique perspective of an intellectual from a non-Western country, Mr. Nazer's book links the sociological and political impact of advancing global communications on the power dynamics of Western nations' striving for dominance. Demonstrating that politics and culture are inseparable, Mr. Nazer pushes us beyond the limited scope of such analytical paradigms as "Clash of Civilizations," and "End of History" and more accurately illuminates the future structure of Western/non-Western relations. After reading this book, you read newspapers and newsmagazines, watch CNN and network news, with fresh eyes and a new awareness!