New Book Champions U.S. Power as Singular Path to Global Stability

Washington Post columnist Shadi Hamid is set to release his new book, "The Case for American Power," which posits a provocative thesis: "A more stable and freer world still depends on U.S. power." The book, launching in November, will be the subject of an upcoming salon hosted by Interintellect, featuring Hamid alongside Anna Gat for a rigorous exploration of its claims and justifications in the current global climate.

Hamid’s argument, described as both urgent and deeply personal, contends that American dominance, despite its inherent flaws, remains the world's most viable hope for stability. He traces his own evolution from an opponent of U.S. global involvement to a reluctant advocate, influenced by recent geopolitical events such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the conflict in Gaza. The author argues that in a world where power is an undeniable reality, the alternative to American leadership is often the brutal authoritarianism of nations like China and Russia.

A senior fellow at Georgetown University and a prolific author, Hamid has previously explored complex themes in "The Problem of Democracy" and "Islamic Exceptionalism." His latest work confronts America's past failures, including the Iraq War and support for authoritarian regimes, yet maintains that its democratic foundation offers a unique capacity for self-correction and improvement.

The book has already garnered significant attention and praise from prominent figures. Noah Feldman, a Harvard Law professor, lauded Hamid as a patriot in the tradition of Baldwin and King, while Francis Fukuyama, author of "Liberalism and its Discontents," recommended the book for its clear-eyed assessment of the global situation. Former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, Michael McFaul, noted that Hamid "marshals sweeping evidence and powerful logic to make his case for American power."

The Interintellect salon, co-hosted by Anna Gat, aims to provide a platform for an in-depth discussion on Hamid's compelling argument. This event will allow for a thorough examination of the book's central claims, its limitations, and its relevance in a rapidly shifting international landscape, inviting diverse perspectives on the future role of American power.