In the wake of the September 11, 2001, attacks, US leaders painted the so-called “global war on terror” as an epic battle between civilisation and barbarism.

But instead of spreading democracy worldwide, 20 years later the world is sliding more towards illiberal security states and radicalised populations.

For many people, xenophobia and paranoia became justified. For many politicians, fear-mongering was an easy way to win votes. And for the rich and powerful, the trillions spent on national security equals major business opportunities.

Host Steve Clemons asks David Rothkopf, former editor of Foreign Policy magazine, about the effects of 9/11 on society and politics, and the US's role in the world.

- Subscribe to our channel: http://aje.io/AJSubscribe
- Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AJEnglish
- Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aljazeera
- Check our website: https://www.aljazeera.com/