Debating Civilisations

‘This is an important book that makes a positive and sophisticated contribution to comparative-historical sociology. With this work, Jeremy Smith confirms his place in the first rank of scholars of contemporary civilisational analysis. Following in particular the theories of Castoriadis and Arnason, Smith elaborates the idea of intercivilisational engagement that allows him to extend the scope of study of civilisational formations. The author presents subtle arguments which are original and generally convincing. Of special interest is the focus on Latin America and the Pacific as regions that were largely missing from the sociological study of civilisations. At the same time, Smith highlights new aspects of Japan’s inter-civilisational relations. I remain impressed by the insights of the book. It is informative, stimulating and “must” reading for anyone interested in civilisational analysis as a “paradigm-in-the-making” of today’s sociology.’
Mikhail Maslovskiy,Lead Researcher, Sociological Institute of Russian Academy of Sciences

‘As we enter a new historical phase of reaction against the cosmopolitan values that became dominant in past decades, the publication of Debating civilisations cannot be any more timely. Based on extensive scholarship in the field of civilisational theory, the book offers a new perspective on the nascent global identity. By examining the processes which have created a new world of inter-cultural encounters, it invites us to rethink the very nature of globalisation. This is not a purely intellectual debate. In its theoretical sophistication, it shines new light on one of the major challenges of the twenty-first century: reconciling the western understanding of democratic equality with the recognition of cultural diversity through a new mode of international relations.’
Natalie J. Doyle, Deputy Director Monash European and EU Centre, Monash University

‘Jeremy Smith covers the entire field of civilisational analysis with analytical rigour and penetrating insight. He sketches a programme for the future of civilisational analysis that incorporates the major achievements of its renaissance while extending it into new domains. The distinctive multidimensional framework he proposes represents the combination of historical sociology and social theory at its best.’
Craig Browne, Senior Lecturer, University of Sydney