Promotional Information

William I. Robinson has earned a reputation as one of the leading critical analysts of capitalist globalization as a system of power. This book-both rigorous and readable-develops his thesis that we are witnessing a world-historical transition into a new phase of capitalism, with new forms of power, resistance and struggle. Whether or not you agree with Robinson's controversial thesis, you will agree that this book represents formidable scholarship and raises crucial political questions for the twenty-first century. -- Mark Rupert, Syracuse University This is a fine, succinctly argued, presentation of a critical theory of 'global capitalism.' The author regards globalization as a new phase in the history of capitalism-specifically, in the development of a transnational global economy. This book is particularly striking with respect to its cogency, vitality and great commitment to a democratic global order. -- Roland Robertson, University of Aberdeen The leading analyst of transnational class formation provides a clear, straightforward, and convincing account of the economic, political, and social contours of contemporary capitalism. This is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the global condition and prospects for its amelioration. -- Craig N. Murphy, M. Margaret Ball Professor of International Relations, Wellesley College, and Chair, Academic Council on the United Nations System Yet another book on globalization? If you think you have read too many already, think again! Here is a fresh look at the subject which shatters the illusion that globalization has to do with either free international trade or the disappearance of the state. Robinson expertly gathers the diverse threads that run through our world order and unerringly hones in on class and transnational power at the heart of it. -- Ankie Hoogvelt, University of Sheffield

Table of Contents

List of Figures and Tables
List of Abbreviations
Preface
Chapter 1. Globalization as Epochal Change in World Capitalism
Chapter 2. Global Class Formation and the Rise of a Transnational Capital Class
Chapter 3. The Transnational State
Chapter 4. The Contradiction of Global Capitalism and the Future of Global Society
References
Index

About the Author

William I. Robinson is associate professor of sociology, global and international studies, and Latin American and Iberian studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Reviews

Robinson has some interesting things to say... What began as a dry theoretic treatise has morphed into a tub-thumping harangue. -- William Lasser The New Leader Clever and panoramic analysis. Written in a conversational, yet rigorous style. Development and Change This book is an impressive accomplishment. One need not agree with its thesis... to find it interesting and worthy of further study. Choice A must read, presenting a powerful theoretical thesis. -- Jerry Harris Science and Society