Global Outrage: The Origins and Impact of World Opinion from the 1780s to the 21st Century

by Peter N. Stearns
Oneworld (April 1, 2005)
256 pages


This is the first book to examine the origins and evolution of global public opinion in a systematic way and to assess its future role in national and international policy-making. Written by a highly respected historian, this book presents case studies of the function and effectiveness of world opinion over the last two centuries and looks at the role it has in changing both domestic and foreign policy. With a full examination of the relationship between world opinion and Islam, as well as the protests against the 2003 Iraq war, author Peter Stearns also assesses the future possibilities of the role and function of world opinion.

About the author:
Peter Stearns is Provost and Professor of History at George Mason University in Virginia. He has also taught at Harvard University, the University of Chicago, Northwestern University and Carnegie Mellon University, among many others. A prolific author, he has written several highly acclaimed books, including The Battleground of Desire: The Struggle for Self-Control in Modern America (1999, New York University Press), Fat History: Bodies and Beauty in Western Society, Gender in World History (2002, New York University Press) and World History: Major Patterns of Change and Continuity (2004, Longman).

Praise:
"World opinion hangs like a sword over the neck of the American government, but does it really matter? Do leaders listen to the world? Should they, for does history show that the world us actually correct on the issues? Does world opinion even exist in coherent form? With nuance, shrewdness, and scholarly balance, Peter Stearns systematically analyzes the role of world opinion throughout the history of American decision-making. He makes a convincing argument that world opinion counts, particularly now that people around the globe are empowered by mass communication networks and fueled by a contempt for authority, and America ignores the outpouring of views from overseas at its peril."
- Thomas W. Zeiler, Chair and Professor of History, University of Colorado at Boulder

“Eminent historian Peter Stearns takes us on a grand tour of world public opinion, exploring its early forms and recent expansiveness while grappling with the complex issues surrounding this nebulous but undeniably important aspect of globalization. The case studies are illuminating; the emphasis on international organizations that represent, shape, and give voice to world opinion is compelling. With his spirited but reasoned embrace of world opinion s moral authority, Stearns provides keen insights into a remarkably effective force for global betterment.”
- John Boli, Professor and Chair, Dept of Sociology, Emory University, Atlanta

“Peter Stearns has pioneered in writing an historically informed, thoughtful, and balanced account of an increasingly important theme of our times--world opinion. Anyone interested in international relations, global history, human rights or the future of humanity will find this book a fascinating read.” Bruce Mazlish, MIT
“Peter Stearns has a notable knack for spotting neglected historical topics of contemporary relevance. In addressing world opinion, he has done it again, using historical examples to probe the complexity of a growing factor in world affairs. The result is a stimulating essay that invites some encouraging reflections on our global society.”
- Raymond Grew, Emeritus Professor of History, Michigan University