Review:
Readers of Globalization and Its Discontents will already be familiar with the controversy and organised resistance that globalisation has generated around the world due to massive media coverage, yet explaining what globalisation actually means in practice is a complicated task. For those wanting to learn more, this book is an excellent place to start. An experienced economist, Joseph Stiglitz had a brilliant career in academia before serving for four years on President Clinton's Council of Economic Advisors and then three years as chief economist and senior vice president of the World Bank. His book clearly explains the functions and powers of the main institutions that govern globalisation--the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and the World Trade Organization--along with the ramifications, both good and bad, of their policies. He strongly believes that globalisation can be a positive force around the world, particularly for the poor, but only if the IMF, World Bank and WTO dramatically alter the way they operate, beginning with increased transparency and a greater willingness to examine their own actions closely. Of his time at the World Bank, he writes, "Decisions were made on the basis of what seemed a curious blend of ideology and bad economics, dogma that sometimes seemed to be thinly veiling special interests ... Open, frank discussion was discouraged--there was no room for it." The book is not entirely critical, however: "Those who vilify globalization too often overlook its benefits," Stiglitz writes, explaining how globalisation, along with foreign aid, has improved the living standards of millions around the world. With this clear and balanced book, Stiglitz has contributed significantly to the debate on this important topic. --Shawn Carkonen
Review:
[An] urgently important new book.--George Scialabba
Provocative, readable, and sure to earn Stiglitz persona non grata status in certain corridors of power.
A great tour of the complexities of economic policymaking. Getting a top economist to subject the US Treasury and the IMF to withering scrutiny... is good for the long-term health of the system.--William Easterly
Entertaining, insightful, and well-written.... Makes a compelling case.
[A] smart, provocative study... Impassioned, balanced and informed... A must-read.
A war story from inside the halls of the White House and the World Bank, the confession of a powerful economist with a political conscience and a healthy degree of common sense.--Lenora Todaro
Development and economics are not about statistics. Rather, they are about lives and jobs. Stiglitz never forgets that...--Frank Bures
[W]ill surely claim a large place on the public stage.--Benjamin M. Friedman
This book is everyone's guide to the misgovernment of globalization. Stiglitz explains it here in plain and compelling language.--James K. Galbraith, The University of Texas at Austin
He is one of the most important economists of modern times.--Nicholas Stern, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President, World Bank
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