The article argues that the post-Cold War era of U.S. unipolarity, established by the perceived invincibility demonstrated during the Gulf War, has ended. This decline is driven by globalization and technological diffusion, which have democratized advanced military capabilities, allowing regional actors to challenge major powers. Consequently, policymakers must prepare for a more volatile international order marked by frequent crises, heightened costs for securing global trade chokepoints, and reduced predictability from American power. The new rules dictate that great powers can no longer effortlessly impose their will through force.
Scenes From a Roman Century, 1924–2024
English Summary
The book chronicles Rome's dramatic transformation over the last century, using vignettes to trace its evolution from a culturally rich center to a volatile, heavily commercialized tourist destination. Key evidence includes documenting periods of intense political violence, such as fascist killings, WWII urban warfare, and modern mafia activity, alongside the city's deindustrialization. The narrative highlights the tension between Rome's ancient cultural significance and its modern struggle with over-tourism and cultural erosion. For policy, the work underscores the critical need for urban governance models that balance economic development with cultural preservation and historical integrity.
中文摘要
本書描繪了羅馬在過去一個世紀的戲劇性轉變，透過一系列短篇描寫，追溯了其從一個文化豐富的中心，逐漸演變為一個不穩定、高度商業化的旅遊目的地。關鍵證據包括記錄了不同時期的政治暴力，例如法西斯時期的大規模殺戮、二戰期間的城市戰鬥，以及現代的黑幫活動，同時也涵蓋了該城市的去工業化過程。敘事重點突顯了羅馬古老文化意義與其現代應對過度觀光及文化侵蝕的掙扎之間的巨大張力。就政策層面而言，本書強調了城市治理模式的關鍵需求，即必須在經濟發展、文化保護和歷史完整性之間取得平衡。
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