Addressing four major areas of concern--the shift of global power from West to East; the causes and consequences of America's declining global appeal; what would happen if America suffered long-term decline; and how America can reorient its geopolitical goals to prevent it--foreign policy powerhouse Brzezinski provides a comprehensive long-term strategic plan for America.

Part I. The receding West. The emergence of global power; The rise of Asia and the dispersal of global power ; The impact of global political awakening -- Part II. The waning of the American dream. The shared American dream ; Beyond self-delusion ; America's residual strengths ; America's long imperial war -- Part III. The world after America: by 2025, not Chinese but chaotic. The post-America scramble ; The geopolitically most endangered states ; The end of a good neighborhood ; The uncommon global commons -- Part IV. Beyond 2025: a new geopolitical balance. Eurasia's geopolitical volatility ; A larger and vital West ; A stable and cooperative new East -- Conclusion: America's dual role.