Kishore Mahbubani

Kishore Mahbubani is a Singaporean academic, diplomat, and author known for his work on international relations and Asian affairs. He has served as Singapore's Permanent Representative to the United Nations and is a prominent voice on global issues, advocating for greater understanding between the West and Asia.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Great Convergence

    Asia, the West, and the Logic of One World

    In this insightful exploration of global dynamics, the author argues that the world is experiencing an unprecedented level of interconnectedness, driven by technological advancements, economic interdependence, and shared challenges such as climate change and terrorism. The narrative highlights the shift in global power from the West to the East, emphasizing the rise of Asia and the need for a new global governance framework that reflects this changing landscape. By advocating for greater cooperation and understanding among nations, the book presents a compelling case for embracing globalization as a means to foster peace, prosperity, and sustainable development for all.

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  2. 2. Has China Won? The Chinese Challenge To American Primacy

    The Chinese Challenge To American Primacy

    The book argues that China’s rapid economic and geopolitical rise presents a serious challenge to U.S. primacy but does not mean China has already won; instead it calls for sober reassessment, mutual accommodation, and institutional reforms so both powers can share leadership. It critiques Western complacency and urges the U.S. to adapt its strategy—balancing engagement, competition, and cooperation—while urging China to act responsibly within the existing international order to avoid destabilizing conflict.

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  3. 3. Has The West Lost It?

    A Provocation

    This provocative book argues that Western predominance is eroding as dynamic Asian powers rise, and that Western countries must confront complacency, demographic and economic weaknesses, and populist politics if they want influence to endure; it calls for humility, reforms of global institutions, renewed investment in education and infrastructure, and pragmatic cooperation with emerging powers rather than reflexive containment, urging a strategic shift from zero-sum thinking to inclusive, rules-based multilateralism.