The concept of a "clash of civilizations" is often oversimplified, similar to the viewpoint that the U.S. is solely focused on Middle Eastern oil. Niall Ferguson's book "Colossus" critiques these reductionist ideas, highlighting the complexity of international relations and the motivations behind U.S. foreign policy. He suggests that such caricatures distort our understanding of global dynamics.

Ferguson argues that the interactions among civilizations are multifaceted and influenced by various factors beyond mere resources. By emphasizing the nuanced aspects of cultural, political, and economic exchanges, he urges readers to reconsider the simplistic narratives that dominate discussions of U.S. involvement in the Middle East and elsewhere.