BOOK REVIEWS
“Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed.”
Francis Bacon (d. 1626).

Reviewed by Darold H. Morgan
Richardson, TX

Beyond The Age Of Innocence: Rebuilding Trust Between America And The World
By Kishore Mahbubani  New York, Public Affairs, 2005, $26.

On first glance many Americans will dismiss a book like this because they automatically conclude here is another “bashing America” book. But hold on! This is a rare and unusual volume, which all Americans should read because it touches on subjects of great significance. A foreigner who is a committed friend to America writes this critique, and he writes it well. The book is excellently researched, balanced, timely, and ultimately hopeful as it pursues its goal of making Americans understand how they are perceived in this post 9/11 world. Enriched with numerous remembrances of his life and experiences, the author blends an absorbing and disturbing approach to the unique position of American power in this post cold-war period, which is anything but safe.

This is not a diatribe about American foreign policy. Compliments about American education, generosity, and intentions abound, but Paul Kennedy’s assessment about the book is insightful: “This is a plea for cultural understanding, for reasoned leadership and above all, for intelligence.” Facing Americans today are overwhelming and major challenges. The author points to three in particular: (1) the resurgence of a militant Islam (the source of terrorism), (2) the radical growth and influence of China and India, and (3) the impact of globalization. It is obvious that the American response to these issues sometimes has been less than adequate. If you are a thinking American who is deeply disturbed by the question, “Why do they hate us,” here is a book which wisely and analytically answers that question.

The setting of the book is concentrated on that time frame dated from the demise of the old Soviet Empire and the harsh and perhaps necessary response of American reaction to worldwide Islamic militancy.

America’s goals of expanding democracy and freedom worldwide are undeniable and meritorious, yet sometimes these ideals conflict with America’s own national interests. The author treats this sensitive area with a balanced reportorial instinct, confirming repeatedly that the world is a very dangerous place. These rising levels of anti-Americanism sadly are worldwide, despite the repetitious sounds of an American commitment to democracy, liberty and freedom.

The obvious truth is that American military power is the strongest in the history of the world. Related to this is the rising number of Americans who do not care much about international legitimacy. So, the ethical impasse seems to boil down to the right use of power in this dangerous world where all forms of a frightening terrorism exists. This staggeringly serious debate will be an on-going challenge for years to come. Serious minded Christians who earnestly desire a balanced world view of these multiple challenges should read and debate the pros and cons of this book.

The author’s final chapter, “The Way Ahead,” merits serious reflection on America’s true potential and capacity to serve conceptually as a guide to a stable world order. It is a genuine wake-up call to American leaders to realize the balanced and proper use of power—economic, military, and moral! His discussion of “The Law of Intended International Consequences” is timely and worthy of serious reflection. Recent moves by the current administration and others to address the financial morass of some African nations speak positively to this subject.

The book closes with an ardent appeal for shared and mutual prosperity for all people and nations, an appeal that requires sacrifice and understanding far beyond short-term interests.

Updated Monday, October 24, 2005