David Engels is a Belgian historian and publicist known for his work on Roman antiquity and his thoughts on the decline of civilizations. He is associated with the New Right and has made significant contributions to historical and political discourse. Engels has held prominent academic positions, including serving as a full professor and chair for roman History at the Free University of Brussels (ULB) from 2008 to 2018, and as a Senior analyst at the Instytut Zachodni in Poznań from 2018 to 2024. He is also the president of the Oswald Spengler Society.
Engels’ work often draws parallels between historical events and contemporary issues. His book “The Decline: The European Union Crisis and the Fall of the Roman Republic” explores the similarities between the decline of the Roman Republic and the contemporary crisis of the European Union. Additionally, he has contributed to modernizing the thought of Oswald Spengler, a controversial 20th-century prophet known for his work “The Decline of the West.”
Engels believes in the utility of historical science to understand and predict future events, a perspective that sets him apart from those who view history as merely archival. His approach involves reading historical recurrences and attempting to draw warnings from them, much like a seismograph detecting subtle shifts that could indicate future tremors.
For more detailed details,you can refer to his publications and the activities of the Oswald Spengler Society,which he leads.
Interview wiht Dr. Engels: Historical Perspectives on the European Union Crisis
Senior Editor, world-today-news.com:
Dr. Engels, thank you for joining us today. Your work on historical parallels, notably between the Roman Republic and the contemporary European Union, has gained significant attention. Could you start by explaining why you find these historical comparisons so relevant?
furthermore, how does your approach to understanding and predicting future events using historical science differ from more conventional historical perspectives?
Dr.Engels:
Thank you for having me. Historical comparisons, especially those drawing parallel between past and present crises, provide a unique lens through which to analyze current events. By examining the roman Republic’s decline, we can identify recurring patterns and warning signs that might otherwise go unnoticed in the modern context.
My approach deviates from traditional historical perspectives by emphasizing the predictive utility of history. Rather than simply archiving the past, I believe history can serve as a seismograph, detecting subtle shifts that might indicate future developments. This outlook allows us to learn from historical recurrences and draw meaningful warnings for the present and future.
Senior Editor, world-today-news.com:
In your book “The Decline: The European Union Crisis and the Fall of the Roman Republic,” you delve into the similarities between these two periods of political turmoil.Could you highlight a few key parallels that you find most significant?
Additionally,how have your insights influenced perceptions of the present and potential future of the European Union?
Dr. Engels:
One significant parallel lies in the political corruption and internal tensions that weakened both the Roman Republic and the European Union. The Roman Republic suffered from increasing political fragmentation and clientelism, which ultimately undermined its stability.Similarly, the EU faces challenges such as institutional gridlock, corruption, and deep-seated divisions among member states.
Another crucial parallel is the economic imbalance. The Roman Republic’s economic disparity between rich and poor citizens contributed to social unrest and political instability.Likewise, the EU grapples with economic disparities and the struggle to establish a cohesive economic policy framework.
These parallels suggest that without substantive reforms and more robust cohesion, the EU might face similar declines. By understanding these historical patterns, we can better anticipate future challenges and take preventive measures to strengthen the Union.
Senior Editor, world-today-news.com:
You have also contributed to modernizing the thought of Oswald Spengler, a controversial figure known for “The Decline of the West.” How do you see your work aligning with or diverging from Spengler’s original ideas?
furthermore, what are some of the main critiques of Spengler’s work, and how do you address them in your own research?
Dr. Engels:
My work aligns with Spengler’s broad framework of cultural pessimism and cycles of decline but seeks to update and contextualize his ideas for the modern era.Spengler emphasized the inevitability of decline, but I believe that understanding historical patterns can provide insights into mitigating or delaying such declines.
Critiques of Spengler frequently enough intersect with his deterministic and pessimistic outlook, which can be disempowering. My approach is more action-oriented, focusing on how historical lessons can guide present-day policy and decision-making. By identifying warning signs and potential fault lines, we can proactively address issues before they become full-blown crises.
Senior Editor, world-today-news.com:
How do you envision the future of the European Union given the current trajectory and the historical precedents you’ve studied?
What are some critical steps you believe policymakers should take to strengthen the Union and address the underlying issues?
Dr.engels:
The future of the European Union is uncertain, but it is not predetermined. The challenges are real,but so are the opportunities for reform and cohesion. Policymakers must prioritize reforms that address both internal divisions and external threats. Strengthening democratic institutions,promoting economic equality,and fostering a shared sense of purpose among member states are crucial steps forward.
Moreover, the EU must be more proactive in shaping global affairs and responding to international challenges.By building stronger alliances and leveraging its collective power, the EU can become a more influential player on the global stage.
