Dani Rodrik reminds us that globalisation is not some irresistible force that crushes anything which stands in its way (“The great globalisation lie,” January).
In Rodrik’s view globalisation “is consciously shaped by the rules that the authorities choose to enact.” They could apply the brakes at any time.
However, don’t forget “the paradox of the powerful.” Those who occupy positions of authority will have elbowed their way to the top. They are hooked on the adrenaline rush of being in the driving seats of the juggernaut. The same individuals who could shift the hyper-globalisation engine into a different gear are also those who gain the greatest buzz from speeding it up. Ivor Morgan, Lincoln