Should we stop caring about declining regional powers like China, Russia, Germany, and Iran? Will the collapse of international cooperation push France, Turkey, Japan, and Saudi Arabia to the top of global concerns? Most countries and companies are unprepared for the world that, according to geopolitical analyst Peter Zeihan, we are already experiencing. For decades, the allies of the United States have depended on its power for their economic and physical security. However, as a new era of American isolationism dawns, the results will surprise everyone. In his book "Disunited Nations," Zeihan presents a series of contradictory arguments about the future of a world where trade agreements are collapsing and international institutions are losing power.

Germany will decline as the most powerful country in Europe, with France taking its place. Every country will need to prepare for the collapse of China, not North Korea. Already we see, as Zeihan predicts, a shift in perception of the Middle East: it is no longer Iran that poses the most dangerous threat in the region, but Saudi Arabia. The world has grown accustomed to the "normality" of American dominance that we have forgotten the historical norm: many smaller, competitive powers and economic systems in Europe and Asia.

The United States is not the only country withdrawing from the international system. From Brazil to Great Britain and Russia, leaders are deciding that even if many countries lose in the rising disorder, their own countries will benefit. The world is not collapsing—therefore it is moving away. The countries and companies prepared for this new ethic of "every country for itself" are the ones that will prevail; those tied to the status quo will find themselves lost in the new order.

Smart, engaging, and essential reading, "Disunited Nations" is a provocative guide analyzing emerging shifts and the issues that will arise in the next two years. We are entering a period of chaos, and no political or corporate leader can ignore Zeihan's viewpoints and message if they want to survive and thrive in this uncertain new era.

Pages: 480, Dimensions: 15.2x15.2cm