The American Civilizing Process

ISBN: 0745632092

Author: Mennell, Stephen

Condition: New

Since 9/11, the American government has presumed to speak and act in the name of civilization. But isthat how the rest of the world sees it? And if not, why not?Stephen Mennell leads up to such contemporary questions through a careful study of the whole span of American development, from the first settlers to the American Empire. He takes a novel approach, analysing the USAs experience in the light of Norbert Eliass theory of civilizing (and decivilizing) processes.Drawing comparisons between the USA and other countries of the world, the topics discussed include:American manners and lifestylesViolence in American societyThe impact of markets on American social characterAmerican expansion, from the frontier to empireThe curse of the American Dream and increasing inequalityThe religiosity of American lifeMennell shows how the long-term experience of Americans has been of growing more and more powerful in relation to their neighbours. This has had all-pervasive effects on the way they see themselves, their perception of the rest of the world, and how the rest of the world sees them.Mennells compelling and provocative account will appeal to anyone concerned about America's role in the world today, including students and scholars of American politics and society.