Globalization has extended conflicts, contradictions, and benefits from the nation-state to global spaces and back again. This multilevel process has also introduced new challenges and benefits to the local and the global. The central concern of this work is how globalization affects local and global human existence and how the benefits of order, welfare, and legitimacy (OWL) in political, social, and economic domains can be fortified. The book endorses an economically and politically liberal position in which liberal capitalism and democratic rule of law are to be reinforced locally and more systematically extended globally. To accomplish this, a “concert of states” is recommended. The approach is analytical rather than normative, and the book stakes out its claims clearly and thoroughly. But by pragmatically focusing primarily on OWL, the questions of justice are minimized. Globalization is more than a practical matter of governance—it is also a normative force with questionably moral material effects. Addressing the congenital violence many argue is built into the modern, liberal democratic order and is often at the root of much resistance to Westernized globalization may be hindered by such an approach. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through faculty.

Choice Reviews

This important book provides a fresh and original perspective on the governance of what is the most potent feature of our times – globalization and the resultant emergence of a global society. The essence of the analysis, that is both elegant and parsimonious, offers a critical roadmap to the pursuit of what are the essentials of a working global society: order, welfare and legitimacy (OWL). No future discussion of globalization would be complete without taking note of the powerful arguments and insights that are presented in this path breaking volume.

Yaccov Vertzberger, Professor of International Relations, Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Our emerging global society cries out for governance--providing order, welfare and legitimacy to the anarchic global trends of the present–and this remarkable book shows how it can be done. Kolodziej envisions a democratic global state moving beyond national interests to deal with world-wide crises. Thoughtful, stimulating and future-oriented, this book will become even more relevant in the years to come.

Mark Juergensmeyer, professor emeritus of global studies and sociology, University of California, Santa Barbara

This is a major contribution to the study of globalization and international relations. It focuses on challenges to global governance around problems of order, welfare and legitimacy. Kolodziej writes clearly and with great multi-disciplinary insight. This volume is an essential teaching resource in international relations and global studies, as well as a significant reference point for researchers.

Robert Holton, Emeritus Professor of Sociology, Trinity College, Dublin and Adjunct Professor of Sociology, University of South Australia