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Policy Discussion Paper: The Return of Empire? Rethinking Colonialism in a Fragmenting World Order

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  • Snower, Dennis
  • Thomas, Margo

    (Women's Economic Imperative)

Abstract

The article argues that the erosion of the postwar rules-based order is giving rise to a new, networked form of colonialism, characterized by extraction, asymmetry, and transactional power. Unlike classical empire, this "new colonialism" operates through digital infrastructures, financial systems, and geopolitical influence rather than direct territorial control. The authors interpret these dynamics as a pathological concentration of agency that undermines human flourishing. They propose "recoupling" collective capacities with collective challenges—through distributed agency, coalition-based governance, and multidimensional wellbeing metrics—as a pathway toward a more inclusive, post-colonial global order.

Suggested Citation

  • Snower, Dennis & Thomas, Margo, 2026. "Policy Discussion Paper: The Return of Empire? Rethinking Colonialism in a Fragmenting World Order," INET Oxford Working Papers 2026-11, Institute for New Economic Thinking at the Oxford Martin School, University of Oxford.
    • Handle: RePEc:amz:wpaper:2026-11
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. , & Lima de Miranda, Katharina, 2020. "Recoupling Economic and Social Prosperity," CEPR Discussion Papers 14421, Centre for Economic Policy Research.
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