Jim Stanford: Economics for Everyone (Second Edition).

Stilwell, Frank

Jim Stanford

Economics for Everyone (Second Edition)

Pluto Press, London, 205, 417pp.

The first edition of this introduction to the economics of capitalism, originally published in 2008, was enthusiastically received by many heterodox economists and labour movement activists. The recently updated edition includes new chapters on the global financial crisis and its aftermath and on the causes and consequences of inequality. Most other chapters have been expanded and brought up to date, while attempts have also been made to link the analysis in the text with other information and resources, particularly the Economics for Everyone site hosted by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives at www.economicsforeveryone.com. The text is enlivened by numerous 'break-out boxes' and some political economic cartoons that highlight the dimensions of corporate power, exploitation and class inequalities.

Stanford's book should continue to be an invaluable teaching tool, challenging economic orthodoxies with a more realistically radical view of how the economy works. It presents capitalism as a system that is 'powerful, resilient, at times productive, but always exploitative and often inhumane method for organizing our economic affairs and activity' (p. xi). It concludes with discussion of practical strategic responses, whether aimed at improving capitalism or replacing it with a more humane, egalitarian and sustainable economy' (p.398). The book is written with verve and contemporary relevance throughout. Its back cover endorsements include Naomi Klein's rousing statement that it is 'a book--both pragmatic and idealist--with the power to change the world'.