Extra credit : Living in an à la carte world (Gaeun Um)

 This report delves into a global shift in perception, revealing a fascinating trend. It challenges the binary perspective of world politics that's often portrayed by Western leaders, emphasizing a nuanced, pragmatic approach preferred by the majority worldwide.

The key finding is the emergence of an "à la carte" mindset, where people advocate for their governments to forge partnerships based on specific issues rather than adhering to rigid political blocs. Despite valuing Western standards of living and soft power, they remain skeptical about aligning politically. They exhibit a nuanced stance—preferring economic cooperation with China while favoring security ties with the US-led bloc.

What's intriguing is how these global citizens perceive major powers like the US, EU, and China. They don't view them as competing models demanding allegiance but as entities to engage with selectively, based on specific concerns. This fluidity in international relationships challenges the notion of fixed alliances and reveals a growing sentiment of issue-based partnerships.

This shift complicates the traditional dichotomy of "with us or against us" thinking, highlighting a global desire for pragmatic, adaptive international relations. It also underscores the doubts surrounding the endurance of liberal societies despite the admiration for Western values and lifestyles.

Furthermore, One of the most intriguing aspects is how people outside the West admire Western standards of living and values but hesitate to align politically. They appreciate the prosperity and soft power of the US and EU but question the sustainability of liberal societies. This nuanced attitude reveals a disconnect between admiration for Western lifestyles and the confidence in the endurance of these political systems.

Moreover, the concept of an "à la carte" approach to global partnerships is fascinating. It challenges the conventional view of rigid alliances and emphasizes the need for flexible, issue-based collaborations. People around the world seem to desire a pragmatic selection of partners depending on the specific matter at hand. This shift away from fixed political blocs toward a more fluid approach in international relations showcases a growing trend toward adaptability and practicality in global diplomacy.