Paper Summary:

The paper explains Michael Reid's main argument in his book, "Forgotten Continenent: The Battle for Latin America's Soul", that Latin America should matter to Americans, even if the mass media refuses to show any interest. The paper discusses how Reid contends that while there have been some major problems on the way to reform, a new world order is emerging in Latin America. The paper then looks at Reid's claims of improving democracies and serious social change. The paper asserts that much of the information in the first half of the book is factual and not easily disputed, however, the second half of the book is highly opinionated and with questionable evidence. The paper concludes that Reid's work is still an important contribution to the study of Latin American politics and their contribution to the global marketplace.

Outline:
Reid's Key Arguments
Evolution Rather Than Revolution
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Latin American used to be considered a non-entity in terms of economic opportunity. When some one said, "Latin America" it typically conjured up images of primitive tribes, jungles, and ancient long lost ruins. It was not associated with a land of opportunity for investment and venture capital. However, Latin America continues to improve its image and is in the process of integrating into the global economy. Latin America is becoming a player in the world economy. Michael Reid's book, "Forgotten Continent: The Battle for Latin America's Soul" examines Latin America in a new light. This book examines Latin America and its deepened democratic institutions as a world of opportunity and social advancement."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Curiel, Carolyn. "Hello, Neighbor." Sunday Book Review. February 3, 2008. New York Times. http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/03/books/review/Curiel-t.html?_r=1&ref=books&oref=slogin Accessed March 28, 2008.
• Reid, Michael. Forgotten Continent: The Battle for Latin America's Soul. Yale University Press, 2007.

Visitors who viewed this Book Review also liked these:

• Essay # 33581 : "Tthe Temperate Grasslands of Latin America"
• Analytical Essay # 148476 : "US Aid and the Economic Development of Latin America"
• Research Paper # 6946 : "European Exploration of the Aztec Natives of Latin America"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: