"How Does Colonialism Work?" in Jenny Edkins and Maja Zehfuss (eds), Global Politics: A new introduction (2nd edition, Routledge, 2013). (original) (raw)

The chapter discusses the historical roots and lasting impacts of colonialism as a key factor in the contemporary divide between the first and third worlds. It addresses various superficial explanations for this divide, such as racial superiority and resource distribution, ultimately arguing that colonialism represents a fundamental cause. By examining past and present military interventions, particularly in Iraq, it critiques the notion of liberation versus occupation and explores the enduring influence of colonial narratives in modern geopolitical discourse.