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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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The Next Decade summary
Empire and Republic in a Changing World
19 mins
Brief summary
In 'The Next Decade' by George Friedman, the geopolitical expert predicts shifts in power politics for the next decade, with the US and China as key players.
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The Next Decade
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Key idea 1 of 8
The United States has the power of an empire that future presidents will have to wield wisely.
As the United States consolidates its influence over the rest of the world, it now faces the same challenge that ancient Rome once dealt with: maintaining an empire without relinquishing the republic.
The United States wields power that is disproportionate to its geographic size and population. The country’s military, for example, remains unchallenged by any other, and its economy produces more than three times that of its closest competitor.
This unique status as the world’s major superpower brings particular dangers, such as the attacks of September 11, 2001, which targeted the United States as a symbol of geopolitical domination.
To achieve its future goals, the United States will rely heavily on one person: the country’s president.
The president of the United States is the most powerful political leader in the world, one whose decisions regarding war, peace and economics reverberate across the globe and affect billions of lives. The invasion of Iraq, for example, has shaken the entire Middle East to its core for the past ten years, and has also resulted in the waves of refugees now seeking safety and security in nearby Europe.
Dealing with the realities of empire management doesn’t leave room for the president to exercise virtue. To protect American interests, the president will need to adopt an unsentimental approach: identify the most dangerous enemies, build necessary coalitions and manage them.
Ultimately, this will mean abandoning old alliances, such as NATO, the United Nations and the International Monetary Fund, and following the pragmatic example of past leaders who ruthlessly protected American interests.
For example, former President Franklin D. Roosevelt helped defeat the Third Reich during World War II by forming an alliance with Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin, despite the latter’s totalitarian rule and ruthless policies toward his own people.
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What is The Next Decade about?
The Next Decade (2011) offers us a glimpse into the future, exploring the ways in which the United States’ attempts to maintain its dominant position on the international stage will shape events in countries and regions around the world.
The Next Decade Review
The Next Decade (2011) by George Friedman is a thought-provoking exploration of the geopolitical landscape of the next ten years. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Provides insightful analysis on the key global issues and trends that will shape the next decade.
- Offers a compelling perspective on how political, economic, and technological forces will impact the balance of power in the world.
- With its well-researched arguments and clear explanations, it engages readers with an intellectually stimulating journey into the future.
Who should read The Next Decade?
- Students of history or political science
- Anyone interested in a vivid forecast of the future of international politics
- Avid readers and news junkies eager for a fresh perspective on foreign affairs
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The Next Decade FAQs
What is the main message of The Next Decade?
The main message of The Next Decade is about understanding geopolitical forces that shape our world and predicting trends for the future.
How long does it take to read The Next Decade?
The reading time for The Next Decade varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The Next Decade a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Next Decade is a fascinating book with valuable insights into global politics. It offers strategic analysis and thought-provoking perspectives.
Who is the author of The Next Decade?
The author of The Next Decade is George Friedman.
What to read after The Next Decade?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Next Decade, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- The Accidental Superpower by Peter Zeihan
- World Order by Henry Kissinger
- How to Speed Read People by Patrick King
- Better Small Talk by Patrick King
- Becoming a Person of Influence by John C. Maxwell
- Either/Or by Soren Kierkegaard
- Why Taiwan Matters by Kerry Brown
- Civilization by Niall Ferguson
- Trump: The Art of the Deal by Donald J. Trump