Second paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Second paper - Essay Example He introduces the concept of economic or environmental determinism, in which he cites external forces as the cause of poverty of some groups.1 Bauer dispels the common opinion that the underdeveloped world is poor because of Western policies and imperialism. Removal of colonialism does not necessarily trigger economic development. Colonial status does not necessarily hamper material progress of developing countries in Africa or Asia. Robert Kaplan’s article â€Å"In Defense of Empire† explores a tempered American imperialism. Imperialism has both positive and negative aspects, depending on its application in a country or empire. Kaplan explains that previous empires provided greater peace and stability as compared to contemporary America. Imperialism is a form of self-government that occupies a middle ground between disorder and full state control.2 Although the quest for riches drives imperialism, it results in other beneficial factors such as cosmopolitanism, which spur growth. The conclusion that imperialism only results in evil is an apathetic notion based on some minor cases of its negative effects. Mike Davis’ â€Å"Late Victorian Holocausts† is a book that relates political economy and global climate patterns, specifically, the relationship of colonialism, capitalism, and global famine. He highlights the negative effects of imperialism when he argues that economic and political systems, which characterize imperialism, have caused the death of millions. Davis’ book details how the economic philosophy of the colonial governments exacerbated rural poverty and food shortage while economic guidelines intensified famine. This imperialistic behavior is the reason for most third world countries.3 Davis would dispute Bauer and Kaplan’s argument because he focuses on the negative effects of imperialism. Bauer and Kaplan