During medieval globalization (which once gave Georgia its King David the Builder) western Europe was one of only several centers in the Afro-Eurasian world. But during the last four centuries, the West has topped the world hierarchy of technology, wealth, military power, and prestige. Explaining the first type of modernization has been the Holy Grail of social science since the times of Adam Smith, Karl Marx, and Max Weber. What do we know in the early 21st century? Can Western modernity be emulated? Will it last forever? * * * From December 20-22, 2016, by invitation of Caucasian House, Professor George Derluguian, a historical sociologist at New York University (Abu Dhabi), delivered three public lectures. During his lectures, Professor Derluguian discussed historical developments in Russia and the Caucasus. In addition, Professor Derluguian comparatively analyzed the different models of the modernization process that existed at different times in various parts of the world. He also focused on the various stages of modernization that took place in Russia, and what impact this process had on neighboring countries (including Georgia); Professor Derluguian discussed the architecture of modern political, economic and socio-cultural realities in the Caucasus and throughout the world. The lectures were organized under the framework of Caucasian House’s project: “Georgian-Russian Dialogue for Peace and Cooperation”, with the financial support of the United Kingdom’s Conflict, Stability and Security Fund.

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