Niall Ferguson Warns: America Mirrors Rome’s Late Republic Stage – Is the Empire Crumbling?

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By : Byron Tiller

In an enlightening dialogue with Noema magazine’s editor-in-chief Nathan Gardels, Niall Ferguson, a columnist for Free Press, unveiled his perspectives on a range of pressing topics including the current U.S. administration’s foreign policy, global alliances, and his personal philosophical evolutions. The conversation, set to feature in an upcoming Berggruen Institute podcast, was streamlined for enhanced clarity and brevity.

### Unpacking U.S. Foreign Policy and Global Relations

During the interview, Ferguson contested the notion that the U.S. under Trump was aligning with authoritarian regimes like Russia and China. He argued that America’s approach, termed ‘radical sovereigntism’ by some, was distinct and not akin to forming alliances with these nations. Ferguson highlighted a shift in global dynamics, noting an emerging axis involving Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, which he pointed out was a tangible coalition unlike previous rhetorical groupings coined in U.S. foreign policy speeches.

The discussion also touched on the perceived failures of the Biden-Harris administration, particularly in terms of international relations and maintaining global alliances. Ferguson described these efforts as a disappointment to many liberals worldwide who initially celebrated the promise of a return to conventional diplomacy.

### The Re-election of Donald Trump: Implications and Interpretations

Ferguson drew parallels between the current political climate and historical electoral shifts, such as the 1980 election of Ronald Reagan following widespread dissatisfaction with Jimmy Carter’s handling of the Iran hostage crisis. He suggested that Trump’s re-election could be seen as a critique of the Democratic administration’s inability to effectively manage international conflicts and maintain deterrence, particularly referencing recent military and political conflicts involving Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Israel.

Contrary to some opinions that Trump’s re-election might benefit adversarial nations, Ferguson argued it spelled bad news for those countries. He detailed how Trump’s policies, including increased tariffs and maximum pressure campaigns, were likely to continue posing significant challenges to countries like China, Iran, and North Korea.

### A Critical View on the Liberal International Order

Ferguson shared his skepticism about the existence and efficacy of the liberal international order. Echoing the words of Voltaire, he remarked that just as the Holy Roman Empire was neither holy, Roman, nor an empire, the liberal international order has never been particularly liberal, international, or orderly. This stance invites a reevaluation of how global cooperation and economic systems are traditionally understood and portrayed in diplomatic discourse.

### Personal Reflections: A Shift Towards Christianity

In a more personal revelation, Ferguson discussed his recent conversion to Christianity, a significant shift in his philosophical outlook. This conversion marks a profound transformation in his personal life, influencing not only his worldview but also his interpretations of political and social events.

This comprehensive interview sheds light on Ferguson’s multifaceted views on politics, history, and personal growth, offering a nuanced perspective on the challenges and transformations shaping current global affairs.

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