The first part of this paper will deal with consequences for democracy as seen by Benjamin Barber. This theory will then be used to elucidate the current situation in the Middle East. The role of the elite will be explored both through Snyder and Barbers perspectives. Furthermore, some of the ideas and theories purveyed throughout the course will be used to prescribe a remedy for the bumpy road to democratization some nations face today. The final part of this essay will also focus on using Jack Snyder's theory to display the conflict analyzed through his perspective The final solution will not be based on Barber or Snyder, but it will be a hybrid of the two theories and viewpoints put forth by the two authors.
Barber presents us with two opposite but equally strong forces that dominate the dynamics of today's international affairs. The first is a globalizing and conforming force that penetrates national boundaries. This is called the McWorld phenomenon according to Barber. This force operates by unifying, and conforming the world and its cultures into a multinational web of interconnected economies, all interdependent. International law and order are a requirement for the growth of this force. Although this force will diminish the ability of old ethnic, religious, and national identities to present tension it will not create an atmosphere most effective for nourishing democracy. It does not need democracy as a prerequisite or ingredient for its growth. Furthermore, it does not address the growth and advancement of currently developing countries nor address the concern of diminishing resources in an ever-expanding global economy. The second force is exclusionary, intolerant, and inadaptable. It plays a divisive role by re-instigating and inflaming old ethnic and national tensions through fragmentation and redrawing of borders. It is a byproduct of the cultural anxiety created by the societal vacuum of McWorld's uniformity.
Jihad And McWorld In a changing world, there are two known political futures: Jihad and Mc World. ... The following article is a summary of Jihad, Mc World, and their characteristics after September 11. The Mc World is the more formal way of life in the U.S. ... These are two more qualities of a Mc World. ... These four imperatives make up the Mc World. ...