Against this background, Dennis Smith says that we should understand globalization from an altogether new perspective, one which takes into consideration long-term socio-political development, the dynamics of liberation, and the consequences of humiliation. He claims that if globalization does not change direction, and this hidden agenda is not properly addressed, the costs in terms of freedom and human rights will be devastating. Globalization is stirring up a tide of global resentment held back by fear of American military power. When that power falters, the revenge of the humiliated world will strike the West. Over time, as Americas influence wanes, and the global power balance alters, the crucial struggle will no longer be between the West and terrorism, but within the West. Democracies could find themselves at war with each other.

Globalization: The Hidden Agenda gets inside the forces driving globalization, analyses the anger and fear, and finds the levers that must be pulled to avoid catastrophe. Smiths compelling and provocative account of the crises facing the contemporary world will appeal to students and scholars alike, as well as the informed general reader.