The Glory Trap

Bol

The Glory Trap offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary analysis of how political actors—ranging from populist leaders to authoritarian regimes—exploit collective memory to mobilize domestic support, reshape identity, and challenge international norms. The Glory Trap offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary analysis of how political actors—ranging from populist leaders to authoritarian regimes—exploit collective memory to mobilize domestic support, reshape identity, and challenge international norms. Introducing the original "Memory–Humiliation–Mission" framework, the book examines the weaponization of history across educational systems, media platforms, monuments, and ceremonies. Through six detailed country case studies (Russia, Turkey, China, Hungary, the United States, and France) and thematic chapters on media, leadership styles, digital discourse, and civilizational diplomacy, The Glory Trap not only diagnoses the risks of nostalgic politics but also proposes concrete, evidence-based policy solutions for building an ethical memory ecosystem that strengthens democratic resilience. Lisheng Dong is a political science professor and Pierre de Celle Award recipient. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Antwerp and has held posts in Glasgow, Tartu, and Zurich. He has published extensively, including his latest book, China’s Path to Global Status (Palgrave, May 2025).

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Pages: 326, Hardcover, Palgrave Macmillan