Includes bibliographical references (pages 257-352) and index.
Contents:
Introduction -- Toward a more dismal economy -- Exploitation and market power -- America at war with itself over globalization -- Finance and the American crisis -- Challenge of new technologies -- Why government? -- Restoring democracy -- Restoring a dynamic economy with jobs and opportunity for all -- Decent life for all -- Reclaiming America.
Summary:
We all have the sense that the American economy -- and its government -- tilts toward big business, but as Joseph E. Stiglitz explains, the situation is dire. A few corporations have come to dominate entire sectors of the economy, contributing to skyrocketing inequality and slow growth. This is how the financial industry has managed to write its own regulations, tech companies have accumulated reams of personal data with little oversight, and our government has negotiated trade deals that fail to represent the best interests of workers. Too many have made their wealth through exploitation of others rather than through wealth creation. If something isn't done, new technologies may make matters worse, increasing inequality and unemployment. Stiglitz identifies the true sources of wealth and of increases in standards of living, based on learning, advances in science and technology, and the rule of law. He shows that the assault on the judiciary, universities, and the media undermines the very institutions that have long been the foundation of Americas economic might and its democracy. Helpless though we may feel today, we are far from powerless. In fact, the economic solutions are often quite clear. We need to exploit the benefits of markets while taming their excesses, making sure that markets work for us -- the U.S. citizens -- and not the other way around. Stiglitz shows how a middle-class life can once again be attainable by all.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.