Trade, Peace and War - paulkrugman.substack.com
Paul Krugman explores the concept of 'weaponized interdependence,' where global trade networks are used as tools for geopolitical coercion. He argues that economic integration, once seen as a path to peace, is increasingly being exploited for strategic conflict.
Why it matters
Understanding geoeconomics is critical for analyzing modern international relations and the shift away from post-WWII global cooperation.
∙ Paid 1,290 188 179 Share
When weaponized interdependence escalates
The United States emerged from World War II in a position of remarkable economic and military dominance — a hegemony unrivaled in the Western world since the fall of the Roman Empire. Against some smaller, poorer countries – particularly in South and Central America — America used its position to pursue crude, exploitative imperialism. However, f or the most part, the U.S. adopted a more sophisticated , beneficent approach : building interlocking diplomatic, military and economic systems to promote stability and democratic values as well as national self-interest.
A key part of the intellectual basis for the “Pax Americana” was the belief, most fervently advocated by Cordell Hull , FDR’s secretary of state, that “commerce” — that is, global economic integration — is a force for peace.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in