Anti-Blanchard Macroeconomics: A Comparative Approach

Olivier Blanchard, former chief economist of the IMF, authored a widely used macroeconomics textbook. Anti-Blanchard Macroeconomics critically examines prevailing economic theory and policy, offering an alternative approach. This revised edition explores the relationship between theoretical models and economic policies, with examples and empirical exercises. It discusses key issues such as economic growth, crises, labor market reforms, government debt sustainability, central bank behavior, and the stock market. The book incorporates an analysis of the Covid-19 pandemic and examines the connection between world politics, economic theory, and policymaking. It encourages students to develop a critical spirit while providing a mainstream education in economics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2022
Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd

Olivier Blanchard, a renowned former chief economist of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), has authored one of the most influential standard macroeconomics textbooks, widely used worldwide. Blanchard himself endorses Anti-Blanchard Macroeconomics, a book that critically examines prevailing economic theory and policy in contrast to alternative approaches. This thoroughly revised edition reflects a field of research that has evolved through intense theoretical debates, continuous empirical testing, and subsequent disputes about economic policy.

Emiliano Brancaccio and Andrea Califano, in their concise work, delve into the relationship between theoretical models and economic policies, offering readers practical examples and empirical exercises. They demonstrate how the conclusions of different theories can be empirically tested, shedding light on the connections between the core issues of macroeconomic debate. This updated second edition explores the interplay between economic growth, economic crises, labor market reforms, government debt sustainability, central bank behavior, and stock market dynamics, among many other relevant topics.

Key Features:

Comprehensive Analysis: The book provides a comprehensive analysis of the economic policies, consequences, and theories surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. It examines the interplay between contemporary world politics, economic theory, and policymaking, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by policymakers.

Critical Spirit Nurturing: Anti-Blanchard Macroeconomics is designed to nurture rather than crush students' critical spirit. It encourages students to engage with economic concepts critically, challenging assumptions and exploring alternative perspectives.

Dynamic Field of Research: The book emphasizes that economics is a dynamic field of research that develops through intense theoretical debate and continual empirical testing. It helps students understand that economics is not a discipline that changes in a smooth, linear manner but rather represents a complex and evolving field shaped by ongoing research and real-world events.

Practical Applications: The book offers practical applications of economic theories and policies, providing students with insights into how they can be applied in real-world situations. It includes case studies and examples that help students connect theoretical concepts with practical implications, enhancing their understanding and ability to apply economic knowledge.

In conclusion, Anti-Blanchard Macroeconomics is a valuable resource for students, scholars, and policymakers seeking to deepen their understanding of macroeconomic theory and policy. By critically examining prevailing economic ideas and offering alternative perspectives, the book promotes a more nuanced and informed approach to economic analysis and decision-making. Its comprehensive coverage, practical applications, and nurturing of critical thinking skills make it an essential tool for anyone interested in the field of economics.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781035301836
Edition number: 2 ed