Two Years Later, a Thousand Years Ago

Until September 11, some viewed the globalization of American values in terms of a manifest destiny. However, on 9/11 nineteen hijackers "turned the tools of globalization against the system" and blew that view to pieces. Two years later, skepticism about globalization's benefits still persists. For evidence, one need only notice that anti-American terror networks still abound, and Islamist terror appears ever more global. Nonetheless, author Robert Wright argues that the forces of history and technology should eventually reduce hatred and foster understanding. But such inevitability relies on multilateralism and sound global governance, which Wright hopes will occur before another epic attack. Ultimately, America must show the world that it can set the correct example: historical and technological advance also require moral standing. As the most diverse nation in the world, America has the tools; but it hasn't yet recognized that global governance and welfare are in its best interest. – YaleGlobal