"Stimulating.aptly demonstrates that the changes after periods of disruption are not always improvements" -- Times Literary Supplement "In the tradition of Paul Kennedy's The Rise and Fall of the Great Powers (1987), University of Michigan history professor Potter delivers expert accounts of significant historical transformations, including the rise of both Christianity and Islam and the (in retrospect) ephemeral course of Soviet Russia and Nazi Germany, all of which illustrated three features: disruptive ideas that already existed in the society but in fringe movements; 'repudiation' of principles of the old system; and a 'group tightly organized around a charismatic leader who saw himself as creating a new political order.' An insightful thesis on how history works, perfect for big picture buffs." -- Kirkus Reviews "This fascinating tour of great disruptions in global history is a gem. At a time when the liberal world order is being massively disrupted by new technologies and both radical and nationalist/populist ideas, Potter helps us understand why disruption happens, and how great leadership (or its failure) can lead to healthy innovations or to dangerous upheavals." -- Jack A. Goldstone, author of Revolutions: A Very Short Introduction "Disruption poses key questions about power, governance, and legitimation, and offers provocative answers. Its sweep--from the Roman Empire to the twenty-first century--is breathtaking, its style engaged and lively.

Required reading for our times." -- Catriona Kelly, author of St. Petersburg: Shadows of the Past "David Potter, drawing on his profound understanding of the classical world, has written a lively, witty, and wholly convincing account of how and why, for over two thousand years, political and social life has changed by moving from one 'disruption' to another. As we, wherever we might be in the world, live increasingly in a state of seemingly perennial disruption, it will be an invaluable guide." -- Anthony Pagden, author of The Enlightenment: And Why It Still Matters "This is a great book: informative, interesting, and provocative, in addition to being a real pleasure to read. By using the analytical category of 'disruption' in order to understand the nature of historical change. It provides not only a magnificent overview of two thousand years of history, but also an insightful commentary on the present state of our society and a thought-provoking reflection on our future. David Potter's knowledge, wisdom, and humor make this book an excellent guide and companion for us as we navigate the disrupted and disrupting times in which we currently live.

" -- Stefania Tutino, author of Shadows of Doubt: Language and Truth in Post-Reformation Catholic Culture.