What are Ferguson’s “killer apps,” and how have they contributed to the rise of Western civilization after 1500? Why does the author use this type of terminology?

What role has imperialism played in the emergence of the West as a premiere civilization in the last 500 years? Do you agree with Ferguson’s assertions about the nature of imperialism?

Do the global developments since the publication of this book in 2011 support or challenge Ferguson’s assertions about the West?