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The Great Divergence summary
Brief summary
The Great Divergence by Kenneth Pomeranz explores the economic and social factors that led to the rise of the West and the relative decline of the East in the early modern period. It challenges traditional Eurocentric views and offers a thought-provoking analysis of global history.
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The Great Divergence
Summary of key ideas
The Early Modern World
In The Great Divergence, Kenneth Pomeranz presents a comprehensive analysis of the early modern world, focusing on the period between 1750 and 1914. The book begins with the premise that, prior to the 18th century, the West and East were relatively equal in terms of economic development, resource utilization, and social structures. Pomeranz challenges the Eurocentric view that attributes the West's later industrial and economic ascendancy to its inherent cultural or political superiority.
He argues that, during the early modern period, China and Europe shared similar ecological and social conditions, with both societies facing similar challenges and constraints. Both regions had large populations, intensive agriculture, and relatively advanced economies. There was no significant technological or economic advantage that could explain why the Industrial Revolution occurred in Europe and not in China.
Coal and Colonization
Pomeranz then introduces the concept of 'the great divergence', which refers to the growing economic disparity between Western Europe and the rest of the world. He attributes the beginning of this divergence to the discovery and exploitation of coal. The availability of coal in Britain, combined with its strategic location and the colonization of the Americas, provided Europe with the necessary resources to fuel industrial growth.
He argues that the colonization of the Americas played a crucial role in Europe's economic development. The vast resources of the New World, including fertile land and abundant raw materials, allowed Europe to expand its economy and relieve the pressures of a growing population. This, combined with the use of coal as a new energy source, enabled Europe to break free from the Malthusian trap, a situation where population growth outpaced resource availability.
Impacts of Industrialization
As Europe industrialized, it began to outpace other regions in terms of economic growth and technological progress. Pomeranz highlights the significant social, economic, and environmental impacts of industrialization, including the rise of urban centers, the emergence of a working class, and the transformation of the natural environment. He also emphasizes the role of global trade in Europe's economic success, with European industrial goods being exchanged for raw materials from the colonies and other regions.
In contrast, China faced challenges such as population pressure, land scarcity, and a lack of new energy sources, which inhibited its ability to industrialize. Pomeranz argues that, despite its early lead in economic development, China was unable to sustain its growth due to these structural limitations.
Reconsidering the Divergence
In the latter part of The Great Divergence, Pomeranz revisits the concept of divergence, questioning the idea that the West's economic ascendancy was inevitable or entirely self-generated. He suggests that, to some extent, historical contingencies, such as the discovery of coal and the colonization of the Americas, played a significant role in Europe's rise to global dominance.
In conclusion, The Great Divergence offers a thought-provoking reinterpretation of the origins of the modern global economy. By challenging the traditional Eurocentric narrative, Pomeranz encourages us to reconsider the complex historical forces that shaped the world we live in today.
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What is The Great Divergence about?
The Great Divergence by Kenneth Pomeranz explores the factors that led to the economic and technological gap between the West and the East in the 19th century. Pomeranz challenges the traditional Eurocentric view and argues that China and Europe were not as different as commonly believed. He delves into various aspects such as agriculture, energy sources, and global trade to provide a comprehensive analysis of this historical phenomenon.
The Great Divergence Review
The Great Divergence (2000) explores the origins of economic inequality between the East and West. Here's why this book is worth your time:
- Unveils intriguing insights on how historical factors shaped the modern global economy, shedding light on contemporary wealth discrepancies.
- Challenges conventional wisdom through its thorough research and meticulous analysis, offering a fresh perspective on the roots of divergent economic paths.
- Keeps readers engaged with its engrossing narrative and thought-provoking arguments, ensuring that the exploration of economic divergence is anything but dull.
Who should read The Great Divergence?
Readers interested in understanding the historical roots of global economic inequality
Individuals looking to gain insights into the factors that shaped the modern world
Academics and students studying economic history, globalization, and development
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The Great Divergence FAQs
What is the main message of The Great Divergence?
The book explores how Europe's industrial rise and China's stagnant economy shaped modern economic disparities.
How long does it take to read The Great Divergence?
The estimated time to read the book is several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is The Great Divergence a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Great Divergence is worth reading for its insightful analysis of historical economic shifts.
Who is the author of The Great Divergence?
Kenneth Pomeranz is the author of The Great Divergence.
What to read after The Great Divergence?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Great Divergence, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- The Ascent of Money by Niall Ferguson
- Fooled by Randomness by Nassim Nicholas Taleb
- Civilization by Niall Ferguson
- No Logo by Naomi Klein
- The Road to Serfdom by Friedrich August von Hayek
- Antifragile by Nassim Nicholas Taleb
- Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
- What Money Can't Buy by Michael J. Sandel
- The Long Tail by Chris Anderson
- The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein