1st Edition
Contesting Global Order Development, Global Governance, and Globalization
Contesting Global Order traces dominant values and patterns on a world level over the last half century. Including a framing introduction written for the volume, this book presents James H. Mittelman’s most influential essays. It offers cross-regional analysis, drawing on his fieldwork in nine countries in Africa and Asia.
This research explores mechanisms by which prevailing knowledge about global order is implicated in its deep tensions: chiefly, the impetus for development and global governance embodies aspirations for attaining wellbeing and upholding human dignity; yet market- and state-driven globalization embraces basic ideas inscribed in power, thus increasing vulnerability and making the world more insecure. Rather than exalt one element in this quandary over another, Mittelman shows how different aspects of the relationship collide. Examining cases of specific localities, international organizations, and social movements, this grounded study unveils evolving structures that shape our times. It projects scenarios for future global order and how to make it work for the have-nots.
Mittelman consistently forges a critical perspective throughout this collection. His reflections cut against conventions in international studies and, more generally, global order. This volume will be of great interest to all students and practitioners of development, global governance, and globalization.
Biography
James H. Mittelman is University Professor of International Affairs at American University. Previously, he held the Pok Rafeah Chair, National University of Malaysia, and was a Member at the Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton. His prior books include The Globalization Syndrome: Transformation and Resistance (Princeton University Press, 2000) and Hyperconflict: Globalization and Insecurity (Stanford University Press, 2010).
In the 1970s, long before there was a recognized global analysis, Mittelman was studying specific conflicts around the world through lenses other than those of traditional political science and international relations. Today, when we have a body of scholarship on globalization, Mittelman once again is dong research that cuts beyond established work. There is much to be learned and understood from this book.
Saskia Sassen, Professor Columbia University, and author Territory, Authority, Rights.
For several decades Jim Mittelman has pioneered research into the international political economy of globalization and development. Contesting Global Order assembles, and reassesses, wide-ranging analyses in a richly reflective intellectual autobiography. Bringing the margins to the center of attention, this is unabashed knowledge for empowerment.
Jan Aart Scholte University of Warwick, UK
Mittelman takes us on a fascinating intellectual journey that draws on a wide array of literatures from around the globe. Contesting Global Order demonstrates a commitment to an ethically engaged scholarship that is truly international.
J. Ann Tickner, University of Southern California
The book testifies to the clarity and consistency of Professor Mittleman's thinking on issues of global concern over the last four decades. It offers a clear-eyed scrutiny of emotive and divisive issues in a scholarly and balanced manner.
Taye-Brook Zerihoun, Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs, United Nations.
In this insightful collection of previously published essays, one of the leading critics of received wisdom about development, globalization, and liberalization takes stock of contemporary power relationships. Jim Mittelman’s analyses of social and political realities demonstrate persuasively the need to overcome the widespread global resignation to Margaret Thatcher’s TINA (there is no alternative). Specialists need to read this book, and so do students.
Thomas G. Weiss, Presidential Professor of Political Science, The CUNY Graduate Center
