Karin Kneissl’s book explores the causes and characteristics of the profound crisis currently affecting Europe. For the first time in history, this crisis has struck the very essence of European thought and behavior – freedom and the rule of law. Drawing on her own experience and deep understanding of the contemporary situation, the author demonstrates the inevitability of the degradation processes that have historically shaped Europe. The continent’s decline is objectively accompanied by the rise of the East and the emergence of a future multipolar world order, in which China and Russia are already playing an increasingly significant role. Manifestations of European decline include the erosion of diplomatic skill, the inability to negotiate and conduct business with neighbors, growing militarism, a turn toward quasi-religiosity, deindustrialization, the severing of ties with Russia, and the loss of access to affordable energy resources. The revival of Europe, the author argues, will require a complete renewal of all aspects of its current life, the rise of courageous leadership, and a generational change.
Karin Kneissl; Europe; freedom and law; decline of diplomacy; militarism; deindustrialisation; East; Russia.