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Book Review: The Last Dance of Rationality: Making Sense of an Unravelling World Order by Prof. Rohit Prasad

Updated: Jul 17


In The Last Dance of Rationality: Making Sense of an Unravelling World Order, Rohit Prasad presents a profound exploration of the chaotic currents shaping our modern global landscape. As I delved into this book, I found myself captivated by Prasad's ability to dissect and connect the dots across diverse phenomena—from the onset of global pandemics to the geopolitical tensions plaguing regions like Afghanistan and Ukraine.


Prasad opens with a poignant acknowledgment of the pervasive uncertainty that characterizes our times. He weaves together pivotal events—the contentious origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, the disruptive emergence of cryptocurrencies, and the geopolitical quagmires exacerbated by shifting leadership dynamics—into a coherent narrative of a world in flux. Through this narrative, Prasad invites readers to ponder profound questions: How did we navigate to this juncture? What dynamics have shaped our current reality? And crucially, what lies ahead on our global horizon?


At the heart of Prasad's analysis lies the concept of rationality—a guiding principle that once promised progress and stability throughout the 20th century but now faces its ultimate reckoning. With clarity and accessible prose, Prasad traces rationality's evolution from its foundational role in economic policymaking to its profound impacts on global governance and societal norms. He adeptly illustrates how rationality, while a cornerstone of human advancement, now confronts its own limitations amidst the complexities and contradictions of our contemporary era.



The book's strength lies not only in its comprehensive coverage but also in Prasad's nuanced approach to multifaceted issues. Whether dissecting the economic ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic, scrutinizing geopolitical transformations catalyzed by shifting global leadership dynamics, or examining the societal impacts of technological behemoths, Prasad offers incisive insights that illuminate without oversimplifying.



Furthermore, Prasad courageously confronts uncomfortable truths—such as the erosion of interpersonal bonds in an increasingly digital world, the rise of populist movements amid societal discontent, and the ethical quandaries stemming from rapid technological advancements. These examinations serve not only to illuminate our current state but also to provoke critical introspection regarding the trajectories of individuals and societies alike.


'In The Last Dance of Rationality, Rohit Prasad masterfully navigates the tangled web of interconnected economic, political, social, and ecological risks that confront the global community. With rare clarity, Prasad vividly illustrates the critical inflection point at which the world now finds itself [highlighting] his thesis that the 'Ideology of Rationality' has done much for the world, but has come to unravel under the weight of its own internal contradictions. This work is both timely and indispensable.' - Augusto Lopez-Claros, Executive Director of the Global Governance Forum

In conclusion, The Last Dance of Rationality emerges as a timely and thought-provoking testament to our turbulent era. Rohit Prasad's synthesis of economic acumen, geopolitical insight, and social commentary provides readers with a comprehensive lens through which to comprehend the forces reshaping our global order. Whether seeking clarity on recent events or contemplating the future of global dynamics, this book offers invaluable perspectives that challenge conventional wisdom and inspire deeper reflections on the intricate interplay between reason and reality.


Overall Rating: ★★★★☆


The book is available on Amazon and other leading bookstores across the world. Click here to buy: https://shorturl.at/SPG6z


About the Author:


Rohit Prasad, a distinguished Professor of Economics and Public Policy at MDI Gurgaon, emerges not just as an academic luminary but as a versatile author whose work transcends disciplines. Armed with a Ph.D. in Economic Theory from SUNY Stony Brook, USA, his intellectual prowess extends beyond academia into the realm of impactful literature. Prasad is celebrated for his bestselling book Start-up Sutra, a guiding beacon on entrepreneurship, and Blood Red River, a profound exploration of development conflicts in India through the lens of a travelogue. His insights further extend into the strategic realm of game theory, evidenced by his popular column for Mint, which culminated in Game Sutra. Co-authoring The Dynamics of Spectrum Management, he delves into the intricate economics and institutional frameworks governing radio frequencies.


Beyond his literary contributions, Rohit Prasad's influence permeates policy corridors. His advisory roles with esteemed bodies such as the Reserve Bank of India, the Department of Telecommunications, and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) underscore his practical engagement in shaping pivotal policy landscapes. Prasad's multifaceted career underscores a commitment not just to academic rigor but to translating theory into pragmatic solutions that resonate across economic and regulatory arenas.

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