Phil Mullan, Beyond Confrontation: Globalists, Nationalists and Their Discontents

Philip Hammond

doi:10.1007/s40647-020-00297-0

Abstract

This article is a book review of Beyond Confrontation: Globalists, Nationalists and Their Discontents by Phil Mullan. Like other writers, Mullan warns of the danger of rising global tensions, but what marks out his contribution is a demystifying historical analysis which identifies the underlying sources of conflict and offers an optimistic and forward-looking vision. The first part of the book examines the emergence of the current rules-based international order in the aftermath of the Second World War, uncovers its inherent flaws, and draws out how it has now become a source of conflict rather than stability. Part two is devoted to debunking myths about trade and trade agreements—particularly the idea that these are central to economic dynamism. Arguing that the relationship between trade and economic growth has been turned upside down, Mullan aims to put it back on its feet. The concluding part sets out some positive proposals for how to reimagine economic policy approaches in ways that could enable root-and-branch renewal and to think afresh about what type of political culture would facilitate such necessary changes.

Highlights

Few can have failed to notice the signs of increasing international tension in recent years
In June 2020 alone, the USA published a list of 20 Chinese companies with alleged military links, announced new visa restrictions on Chinese officials, introduced two new laws addressing China’s internal affairs, and increased its
The same month, NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg declared that “The rise of China is fundamentally shifting the global balance of power, heating up the race for economic and technological supremacy, multiplying the threats to open societies and individual freedoms, and increasing the competition over our values and our way of life”

Summary

Introduction

Few can have failed to notice the signs of increasing international tension in recent years. Some in government, such as the China Research Group of Conservative MPs, were already seeking new ways to counter what they see as China’s attempt to “reshape the world”, and the UK had already announced its own plans to send an aircraft carrier to the South China Sea. But the abrupt U-turn on Huawei was directly driven by US pressure: the tightening of American sanctions against the company made it extremely difficult for Britain to continue the relationship.

Results

Conclusion