The Arab Economies in a Changing World
Book Description
Body
The tragic events of 9/11 and the subsequent war in Iraq have focused international attention on a nexus of problems involving economic underperformance, problematic internal politics, and externalization of domestic dissent in the Muslim world. This book examines the economics of the Middle East, with the aim of identifying changes to economic policy that could address at least the economic component of the challenges facing this part of the globe. The authors analyze the interaction of trade, productivity growth, and the political difficulties that may ensue as these countries move towards greater openness. Relevant comparisons are drawn from the experience of the transition economies and India on potentially successful policies and those likely to exacerbate existing problems.
A Choice Outstanding Academic Title for 2007
Editorial Reviews
. . . the only book to my knowledge that provides a comprehensive and integrated politico-economic analysis of Arab economic performance and prospects. It will fill a big need in college syllabi . . . . Farrukh Iqbal, World Bank
. . . a major addition to a very slim literature on an important issue. Patrick Clawson, Washington Institute for Near East Policy
This book fulfills a major gap in the literature on Middle Eastern economies. With universities struggling to add courses on the political economy of the Middle East, this volume will prove to be a great resource. . . . Essential. Choice
. . . this book is very valuable and extremely timely for anyone who has an interest in this topic. It is well written and provides us with an analysis that is short, yet very thorough and comprehensive. There is an extensive presentation of data and indicators, covering issues ranging from productivity and income to happiness, demographics, foreign investment and political stability. Journal of International Economics
. . . the only book to my knowledge that provides a comprehensive and integrated politico-economic analysis of Arab economic performance and prospects. It will fill a big need in college syllabi . . . . Farrukh Iqbal, World Bank
Contents
Chapters are provided for preview only.
Preface
Acknowledgments
1. Introduction
2. Growth, Productivity, and Income
3. Welfare, Happiness, and Discontent
4. The Demographic Challenge and the Role of Globalization
5. Religion, Institutions, and Growth
6. Economic Policies and Their Effects
7. Attitudes, Interest Groups, and Reform
8. Global Engagement
9. Risk, Credibility, and Supply Response
10. Authoritarianism, Uncertainty, and Prospects for Change
11. Conclusion
References
Index