Dr. Richard Haass is president of the Council on Foreign Relations. An experienced diplomat and policymaker, he served as the senior Middle East adviser to President George H. W. Bush, as director of the Policy Planning Staff under Secretary of State Colin Powell, and as the U.S. envoy to both the Cyprus and Northern Ireland peace talks. A recipient of the Presidential Citizens Medal, the State Department's Distinguished Honor Award, and the Tipperary International Peace Award, he is also the author or editor of fourteen other books, including the best-selling A World in Disarray.
This book is a superb introduction to the world and global issues. Richard Haass has been able to write something that is brief, readable and yet comprehensive -- marked throughout by his trademark intelligence and common sense. -- Fareed Zakaria Condensing so much complexity into a lucid 400 pages is no small accomplishment. --The New York Times This is the book that explains how the world really works, how it is changing, and why it matters. Just what every citizen and student needs to read. --Madeleine Albright This terrific work delivers completely on its promise to provide readers with a basic understanding of the world. It is hard to imagine anyone more suited for this ambitious task than Richard Haass. His narrative flair, depth of experience, and wide-ranging knowledge sparkle on every page. --Doris Kearns Goodwin An essential book--just what the world needs now to put things in perspective. --Ray Dalio Richard Haass explains the world to us in a thoughtful, comprehensive and accessible way. At a time when our world is changing faster than ever--and becoming more interconnected and complex--it has never been more important to be globally literate. Our future depends on it. --Arne Duncan A comprehensive analysis of our world--a valuable guide for every alert citizen as well as for scholars and students of international affairs. --New York Journal of Books We are all being bombarded by strong views designed to conjure up emotion over sound judgement, which makes it very grounding to have The World. It is a great read for anyone who wants to have a sound background before deciding to retweet the latest crazy article making the rounds! --Kal Penn This is a great book that every high school and college student, as well as teachers and parents, should read. An indispensable resource to educate global citizens. --Professor Fernando M. Reimers, Harvard Graduate School of Education