Neo-liberalism or democracy? Economic strategy, markets and alternatives for the 20th century

Arthur MacEwan, Zed Books, 255 pages, hardback £45.00, paperback £15.95

The author argues convincingly that there are alternatives to the current neo-liberal orthodoxy that insists that economic development must be left to the market forces which have produced such dramatic inequalities and poverty. He asks how people in poor countries can most effectively organise their economic lives, and argues for a "democratic strategy", meaning one in which popular social movements play a leading part.

In the first part of the book he examines neo-liberal myths about international trade, the distribution of income and the origin of markets. He is convincing in his demonstration of how markets have been socially constructed.

The second part develops a programme to meet the needs of the majority, for equality, environmental preservation, security and social cohesion along with popular participation.

The author notes that it must be realistic in the sense of being able to gain popular support and feasible without a change in the economic system. He assumes that the private market sector continues to play a large role. And he sees education, especially community schools, and co-operatives, as examples of social spaces where popular activity can achieve a great deal. A very stimulating and lucidly written book.