In "Earning the Rockies," Robert D. Kaplan discusses the shifting dynamics of Europe, suggesting that the continent's period of unity and internal strength is coming to an end. He explores how geographic and political factors are influencing Europe's ability to maintain cohesion, indicating that rising nationalistic sentiments and regional disparities may be eroding the collaborative spirit that once defined the region.

Kaplan's analysis underscores the complex interplay between geography and geopolitics, arguing that these elements shape a nation's role on the global stage. By examining Europe's past and potential future, he provokes thought on the challenges that lie ahead, emphasizing that the established order in Europe may face significant transformations as internal divisions grow.