The Accidental Theorist: And Other Dispatches from the Dismal Science
When economics and ideology mix, the results often sound plausible, but in fact can be terribly wrong and lead to ill-conceived and sometimes dangerous economic policy. For several years, Paul Krugman, author ofThe Accidental Theoristand one of the most celebrated economists of the '90s, has been punching holes in fashionable ideas such as the logic of supply-side economics and the evils of globalization.The Accidental Theoristis a collection of Krugman's best published and unpublished essays that cover everything from the Asian financial crisis to inflation in America.Krugman's cause is neither left or right; rather it's the pursuit of clear thinking about economics that's unfettered by ideology. He writes, "But we should never be surprised when prominent people say foolish things about economics. The history of economic doctrines teaches us that the influence of an idea may have nothing to do with its quality--that an ideology can attract a devoted following, even come to control the corridors of power, without a shred of logic or evidence in its favor."If you've read and enjoyed Krugman's regular column forSlate, "The Dismal Science," or have admired his work in theNew York Times,The Washington Monthly, andForeign Affairs, you'll find that theThe Accidental Theoristis a must read. The essays in this book reflect a clairvoyant and playful mind that's patient enough to unravel and simplify--not dumb down--the arcane and lofty ideas of economics to something that the rest of us can understand. Highly recommended.--Harry C. Edwards--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.