El ataque a las torres y el dramático inicio del siglo XXI

This article analyzes the terrorist attacks of September 11 in relation to the evolution of the international system. The author discusses the motivations behind the attacks, as well as evaluating their consequences and those of the international acions designed to counteract this threat, for the international system. The distinct postures adopted by the United States in light of the events of September 11, and the implications of shifts in U.S. foreign policy orientations for the foreign policies of other countries are also studied. Finally, the author highlights the onset of significant transformations in the role of the state, conceptions of security, international economic development and the globalization process, while identifying new opportunities for a more positive role on the part of the international community in modifying current sentiments of polarization and fear that charaderize the global crusade against terrorism.