Unrivaled: Why America Will Remain the World's Sole Superpower (Cornell Studies in Security Affairs)

Michael Beckley presents a very different kind of book about the USA compared to China and other countries in terms of power based on economic, military, and other factors. It is an easy read illustrated with many figures and tables and summary conclusions, It is also well referenced. Many other authors have concluded that The USA is a "has been" empire and that it's continued superpower status has been eroded to the point that it can no longer contain China or do much about China's ambitions in the world. Beckley's arguments show that this is far from true and that today we have a Unipolar situation in which the USA continues to be an unchallenged hegemon and is likely to be for some time. His economic presentations in particular are worth reading as he shows that China is clearly not the economic powerhouse that we think it is and that the cost to China in its slavish support of its state-run industries and maintenance of domestic order is massive. Unlike other studies and books he challenges the notion that if war did break out between the USA and China, the USA would be likely to lose or at best face a stalemate. That is not to say the USA does not have problems, and that these problems over a long period of time could lead to the USA's downfall; in fact, the author delineates several scenarios in which this could occur. Overall, I found the book to be a refreshing account of the geopolitical/economic USA-China situation in which China is not automatically accorded all the usual assumptions that Americans should take their bats and balls and go home.

Michael Beckley has written an extremely well-researched, original, and very persuasive book challenging the idea that the U.S. Empire is in terminal decline and will be superseded by the Chinese Empire. He looks at 'net' rather than 'gross' power and reveals signals and indicators that will challenge the thinking of even the staunchest of declinists.Although he admits all past historical empires have ultimately declined, he says this time it's different. It's well known that this time it's never different...however, his evidence really makes one think and re-consider and re-calibrate their thinking. He measures power by net stocks of wealth and military assets subtracting for production, welfare, and security costs. He reveals a Chinese 'paper tiger' whose military gap is enormous and whose production costs are several times higher than those of the United States.He also looks at geography, institutions, and demography. America is protected by peaceful oceans whilst China is surrounded by enemies which are costly to defend from. American rule of law increases productivity and innovation whereas China is plagued by corruption.While anything can happen to disrupt US hegemony and the historical cycle points to eventual decline, Dr. Beckley really does provide food for thought and make a convincing case that Pax Americana may indeed last far longer than anyone may have imagined.

Michael Beckley’s book is well researched and balanced. He provides more than mere optimism and a counter to books like Michael Pillsbury’s “100 Year Marathon” and Graham Allison’s “Destined for War”.Beckley lays out his argument well and shows that there are better, more nuanced measurements for where America’s advantages lie and where China’s weaknesses actually are. He supports this with a detailed overview of other countries in the Indo Pacific region and details their capabilities and relationship with China. Finally, his recommendations are sound and practical. America will eventually fade as a superpower. But how that happens and when is not determined. We can leave a better legacy and prevent a violent and bloody transition if we pay attention.More military, national security, intelligence and public servants need to read this book.

Folks may not agree with such a positive analysis of the possible future of the United States. It is clear; however, that many factors enter into determining the rise and fall of Empires. At its best the United States represents and Empire of Ideals. At its most base, it follows all the well worn paths to decline. Beginning with the Age of Reagan, the US returned in a number of respects to one of its foundational economic models, the Plantation. Fit for the 20th and 21st century but nevertheless a period of devaluing labor and not investing the future of American Civilization.Beckley dissects a number of trends which point very well in the direction of continued relevance and strength of the US. The future is ours to lose. Lincoln said it very well during his address to the Illinois Young Men's Lyceum in 1838:"At what point then is the approach of danger to be expected? I answer, if it ever reach us, it must spring up amongst us. It cannot come from abroad. If destruction be our lot, we must ourselves be its author and finisher. As a nation of freemen, we must live through all time, or die by suicide."Warren Buffet has also made the point with words this effect: "Those who have bet against the United States have often been disappointed". I would add that such thinking applies not only to foreign rivals but also to members of the American Power Elite who have bet as they have.

Excellent book that reveals numerous flaws in our thinking of modern superpowers. It sheds light on the complexity of the debate about the current status of the United States, main risks that the country could face ahead but also reminds us the stock of assets and wealth that this country has, which uniquely position it as a world superpower for decades to come. Great work!

A well-researched, interesting and very easy to read book. I found it well-grounded in history and current geo-politics and was fascinated by Beckley's conclusions. Although it was mostly current I found some recent events in the US would challenge some of his ideas, although to be fair, he did imply such things. Highly recommended.