Zakaria questions

1.      What is Fareed Zakaria’s main point in this essay, and what argument(s) is he responding to? Summarize the “I say” and “they say” of his argument.

Zakaria actually makes two main points in the essay. First, he claims that the idea that the United States is headed for some sort of collapse in terms of global power and influence is not buttressed by the facts. Second, he argues that globalization will present challenges for the country, that it will see a drop in its share of international wealth, trade, economic influence, and so forth and will have to make adjustments accordingly. His point here is that Americans need to embrace the new global order, not fear it, and use it to the country’s advantage.  

2.

1.      In writing about the short-term future of the United States in paragraph 4, Zakaria asserts that the country “will face the most intense economic competition it has ever faced.” Summarize his arguments about the domestic and international challenges that he believes the United States will face.

The main challenge Zakaria sees facing the United States is significant expansion of economic power and trade figures within the EU and in quickly developing countries such as India and China. In addition, countries around the globe are seeking a greater voice in terms of international issues and policies. As these matters play out, the United States will inevitably find itself holding a shrinking piece of the global pie—which will affect the domestic economy as well—and facing more competition for global influence.

3. 

1.      In paragraph 13, Zakaria discusses the effects of the United States’ history of isolation from the rest of the world. He writes, “Americans speak few languages, know little about foreign cultures, and remain unconvinced that they need to rectify this. Americans rarely benchmark to global standards because they are sure that their way must be the best and most advanced. The result is that they are increasingly suspicious of this emerging global era.” These comments are the reflections of someone who was born and raised abroad but has chosen to live his life in the United States. How would you respond to his characterization of Americans based on your own experiences and observations?

Depending on the makeup of your classes, you may have students who agree with what Zakaria says, but don’t see it negatively as he does, who take an essentially nativist stance. If you have a number of immigrant or international students, it would be interesting to get their views.

4.

1.      What audience do you think Zakaria is attempting to reach in this essay? How do you know? Of what is he trying to persuade the reader, and how effective do you think he is?

Zakaria clearly has in mind an audience of educated Americans who might be in a position to influence public policy either directly—through their positions in government or as political advisors—or indirectly—as voters, educators, and consumers. As suggested earlier, he wants to persuade readers that openness and adaptation to the new global order is crucial, that a retreat to insularity is a recipe for disaster.