Fareed Zakaria: Career Overview in Books, Journalism, and Academia

Fareed Zakaria: A Career Spanning Books, Journalism, and Academia

Fareed Zakaria is a renowned author, journalist, and commentator on global affairs. Born in Mumbai, India, his career has spanned various fields, including academia, journalism, and publishing. Despite having a doctorate in political science from Harvard University, he chose to pursue a career in journalism rather than teaching, citing his passion for ideas and their dissemination as the driving force behind this decision.

Early Influences: Khushwant Singh and George Orwell

Zakaria's love for literature began at a young age when he met Khushwant Singh, who encouraged his curiosity and introduced him to the works of authors like George Orwell. These early influences shaped Zakaria's writing style and helped develop his scholarly interests in political science.

Journalism: CNN Show and Newsweek International

In journalism, Zakaria gained prominence through his weekly column on global affairs for The Washington Post, a position he held before joining CNN. He has been hosting his CNN show since its inception, providing a platform for discussing world events and their implications for US foreign policy. Additionally, he served as the editor-at-large of Newsweek International.

Books: Synthesizing Ideas and Historical Perspectives

Despite his success in journalism, Zakaria remains committed to disseminating ideas through books. His latest publication, "Age of Revolutions: Progress and Backlash from 1600 to the Present", reflects his passion for exploring historical trends and understanding their impact on contemporary society. Another notable work, "The Rise of the Rest," advocates for the United States to adapt to a changing global landscape and embrace multiculturalism.

Intellectual Curiosity and Personal Life

Throughout his career, Zakaria has remained intellectually curious, questioning societal norms and seeking to understand complex phenomena. He has also managed to maintain a rich personal life, balancing professional commitments with personal relationships.

Reflections on Globalization and the Post-American World

Zakaria's commentary often touches upon globalization and its consequences, particularly the rise of non-Western powers. He has critically analyzed these developments, offering insights into the challenges posed by increasing nationalism and identity politics. Furthermore, he has highlighted the importance of maintaining America's role as a leader in international relations.