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The Economics of Enough

How To Run the Economy As If the Future Matters
by Diane Coyle
The Economics of Enough: How To Run the Economy As If the Future Matters. Princeton Univ. Mar. 2011. c.336p. photogs. bibliog. index. ISBN 9780691145181. $24.95. BUS
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Noted economist Coyle (Univ. of Manchester; Sex, Drugs & Economics: An Unconventional Introduction to Economics) analyzes current governmental policymaking, business practices, and societal trends to examine the world that future generations will inherit. Societies in the industrialized world may face a future plagued by high tax burdens relating to public health care and pension costs generated by an aging population with low birthrates. Diminishing natural resources and climate change will also be factors with which to contend. The nine chapters examine possible solutions, such as productivity gains from information and communication technologies, restructuring by societies, and savings by individuals. Coyle also advocates new measurements beyond gross domestic product that account for intangible items. Coverage of topics like management of state pension funds seems especially timely.
VERDICT Designed for readers well versed in economics, this book offers an in-depth economic analysis that often supports arguments with philosophical and sociological theories. Because of its complexity, it is recommended solely for academic collections.
Reviewed by Caroline Geck, MLS, Newark, NJ , Mar 15, 2011
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