Coexistence in an atmosphere of mutual respect in a pluralist world order has become an even greater challenge in the practice of international relations since the murderous acts committed by al-Qaeda on September 11, 2001 (9/11) that demanded justice. This book looks beyond today's popular narratives. Dr. Chang explores the extent to which the tragedy of 9/11 has been exploited by the neoconservative-controlled U.S. administration as opportunity to launch its grand strategy for creating an American-centric order, necessary for the continuation of U.S. hegemony in the twenty-first century.

This book offers a frank and honest assessment of the opportunities and challenges ahead for both the US and the wider world, examining the leading economic, political, and social issues in the context of the several rational choice theories and the emergence of challenges to entrenched Western interests.