In this timely and controversial book, economist Deepak Lal explores the twin themes of empires and globalization and discusses the place of the US in the current world order. Lal argues that not since the fall of the Roman empire has there been a potential imperial power like the United States today, and asks the question: Is a US imperium needed for the globalization which breeds prosperity? What form should this empire take? Would US domestic politics support this? Would the US tendency to see itself as a moral nation pursuing "universal values" such as democracy, equality and rights run into resistance from other non-western Christian societies? The US has already faced hostile coalitions. What is the history and nature of resistance to US hegemony? Lal explores the Islamic threat to the position of the US and the current "war on terror."