In his book "The Square and the Tower," Niall Ferguson explores the profound impact of networks on power dynamics throughout history, highlighting their potential for manipulation by corrupt individuals or extremist groups. He warns that the once theoretical idea of such entities using these networks for nefarious purposes has now become a reality, indicating the onset of a new kind of warfare in cyberspace.

Ferguson further suggests that this emerging conflict could escalate, raising concerns about the future of global stability. The current indicators of geopolitical risk imply that traditional warfare, including the potential for nuclear confrontations, might soon be on the horizon, adding urgency to the need for understanding and mitigating these threats.