Money and Power: The World Leaders Who Changed Economics

Politicians have the power to transform people's lives through economics, as demonstrated by Deng Xiaoping, Franklin D Roosevelt, Peron, and Vince Cable's examination of 16 world leaders who transformed their countries' economic fortunes.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 400 pages
\n Publication date: 04 February 2021
\n Publisher: Atlantic Books
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Through the lens of economics, politicians wield immense power to shape the lives of individuals and communities, either for the better or for the worse. Take, for instance, the transformative impact of Deng Xiaoping's policies in China, which lifted millions out of poverty by opening up the country to global trade and investment. Similarly, Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal played a crucial role in rescuing the United States from the depths of the Great Depression, fostering economic recovery and social welfare programs. On the other hand, leaders like Peron and his successors in Argentina brought the country to the brink of ruin through policies that prioritized populism and economic nationalism, ultimately leading to economic instability and social unrest.

In his comprehensive work, "Money and Power: The History of Sixteen World Leaders Who Transformed Their Countries' Economic Fortunes and Challenged Economic Convention," economist and politician Vince Cable delves into the legacy of these sixteen world leaders. Spanning from Thatcher to Trump, from Lenin to Bismarck, this book offers a fresh perspective on the science of government, examining the intricate interplay between economics and politics. Through vivid narratives and insightful analysis, Cable sheds light on the significant individuals and events that have shaped the economic landscape of the past three hundred years.

One of the key themes explored in "Money and Power" is the impact of economic policies on society. Cable highlights how leaders like Deng Xiaoping and Thatcher, through their commitment to free market capitalism and deregulation, were able to stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities. However, he also acknowledges the negative consequences of such policies, such as income inequality and environmental degradation. Similarly, Roosevelt's New Deal aimed to address the economic challenges of the Great Depression by implementing social welfare programs and regulations to protect workers and consumers. However, critics argue that these policies led to government intervention and stifled economic growth, ultimately contributing to the rise of socialism and communism in the 20th century.

Another important aspect of "Money and Power" is the role of political ideology in shaping economic policies. Cable examines how leaders like Lenin and Marx, who advocated for socialist and communist systems, influenced the economic development of their respective countries. He also discusses the impact of neoliberalism, which emerged in the 1980s and 1990s, on economic policymaking, emphasizing its focus on market competition, deregulation, and privatization. Despite its successes in promoting economic growth and reducing poverty in some countries, neoliberalism has also been criticized for its disregard for social welfare and environmental protection.

In addition to examining individual leaders and their policies, "Money and Power" also explores the broader historical context in which these leaders operated. Cable discusses the political, social, and economic factors that shaped the world during different periods, such as the rise of nationalism, the Great Depression, and the Cold War. He also examines the impact of globalization on economic development, highlighting how countries can leverage international trade and investment to promote economic growth and prosperity.

Overall, "Money and Power: The History of Sixteen World Leaders Who Transformed Their Countries' Economic Fortunes and Challenged Economic Convention" is a thought-provoking and informative book that provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between economics and politics. By examining the legacy of sixteen world leaders, Cable offers a comprehensive understanding of the factors that have shaped economic development and the challenges that policymakers face today. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in economics, politics, and the history of global economic development.

\n Weight: 772g\n
Dimension: 168 x 244 x 44 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781786495105\n
Edition number: Main\n