The book analyzes the impact of the rapid rise of China and India on existing power relationships worldwide. It examines current frictions that could escalate into trade, cold, and conventional wars. Uniquely, this text also considered the risks that these countries pose to global environmental sustainability because of their growing CO2 emissions.

The rapid rise of China and India is reshaping our global economic and environmental systems—raising major issues of stability, governance, and sustainability. This book develops a framework that shows the interdependence between economic size, trade, finance, technology, environment, security, and global governance. Author Carl J. Dahlman uses this framework to provide data on the speed of global power shifts and to trace the implications for nations worldwide. Analyzing this critical moment in historical context, he offers insights into our most pressing concerns. Specifically, China and India's unchecked growth has the potential to ignite trade, resource, cold, and conventional wars. Moreover, these nations could set in motion monumental challenges related to climate change. The text warns that the current international governance system is not up to the challenges of defusing these frictions. Major powers, including China and India, must do more to address the gathering storm. Developing sustainable economic and social relationships will be a most difficult charge, but the cost of putting off reforms will be lower global welfare. Dahlman ends the book with starting points for change.