Review Of: Contesting the Global Order: The Radical Political Economy of Perry Anderson and Immanuel Wallerstein

Abstract

Gregory P. Williams’ goal is to make the case that Immanuel Wallerstein and Perry Anderson are exemplary scholars of Radical Political Economy, nudging them towards the discipline of political science. The author compares the two thinkers in order to outline an approach that is focused on systemic transformations of global politics and the “Really Big Questions,” which have once again become more pertinent in the wake of the many crises that began in 2008. Williams carries this effort through with conviction. Yet, this particular focus may have hidden from sight other considerations that could have strengthened the study. Williams’ account follows a chronological order starting with the very earliest works of Wallerstein and Anderson. The account is rich and skillfully uses both scholarly writings and other historical documents in drawing connections between the intellectual endeavors and historical contexts of Wallerstein and Anderson’s (W&A) careers. Laudably, it is the discovery and showcasing of these connections that propels Williams’ narrative forward, providing an enjoyable reading experience. Williams specifically focuses on three issues that he sees once more surfacing as relevant for thinking about alternative politics of the future. These are the analysis of totalities, the origins and operations of capitalism, and the role of agency. Out of the three, Williams’ best and indeed quite ISSN: 1076-156X | Vol. 27 Issue 1 | DOI 10.5195/JWSR.2021.1052 | jwsr.pitt.edu