Divided By Tim Marshall Book Review

Released: 8th March 2018

Genre: Geopolitics, Global Affairs, Politics, Non-Fiction

Number of Pages: 288

Difficult divisions have been a fixture of humanity for centuries; conflicts fought over territory, ideologies and other differences line our history books. While the 21st Century offers the longest period of continuous peace in history, there are many signs of a new direction. With walls, fences and other expensive barriers rising up, Tim Marshall is back to help us understand why this is happening. What has sparked an increasing nationalism and how do historical events tie into this? The answers vary depending on where you are in the world.

Much like “Prisoners of Geography” before it, “Divided” features a set of examples laid out with anecdotes and historical context. Through the use of demographic data, news sources and accounts from major diplomats the amount of detailed information on display is stellar. The question of what to do about each of the major divides is also discussed without leaning towards one side over another. The series of world systems is certainly a complicated one, but the author allows many readers to navigate it along with him. Many contemporary events are referenced that will be familiar to anyone following global affairs in recent years.

In each case study, a component of division persists; one moment we’re looking into the tribalism that splits up much of the African continent and the next we examine the stark contrast of class and religion. Marshall never bogs down into political discussions and also looks into the psychological side of things; that fear of the other, the sense of “us and them”, these approaches have consequences in both the long and short-term. The book’s only weakness is how outdated it may feel to those reading a few years later. It may need an update at some point in the next decade.

Recommended?

YES: Marshall’s take on the modern age of division is a timely and incredibly relevant book, one which deftly balances history, societal divides and commentary to great effect. The author relays his knowledge across a wide array of nations and conflicts; he’s both truthful and unbiased in his presentation. This book is a must-read for anyone who follows world events, especially those who study the topic of geopolitics.