Böcker av Tom G. Palmer

This book is a survey of the field of development studies from a political economy perspective. It first reviews the academic literature on development and highlights the fundamental importance of institutions and social values, over and above other alternative theories, as determinants in long-run development. In this context, the book draws from the works of Nobel Laureates Douglass North, F.A. Hayek and Elinor Ostrom, and argues that the ingredients of property rights, the rule of law, and market freedoms are essential in generating socio-economic progress. Successful reforms however are not simply a function of constructing formal institutions, but must cohere with the social values, norms, and cultural commitments of local communities. It is in this spirit that the book theorises on the oft-neglected role that political entrepreneurs play in driving endogenous institutional change. Specifically, this book integrates the theoretical discussion on market-driven development with a range of case studies from around the world, featuring the bottom-up efforts of local change agents to pursue institutional reforms and changes in social opinion.

The libertarian philosophy is often associated only with economics or with resistance to social norms.In this path-breaking book, editor Tom Palmer weaves together a series of essays, theoretical and practical, showing how to live a happier life, be a better person, and enjoy the benefits of freedom and responsibility.Case studies with scientific, historical, and philosophical insights are offered to create a handbook for free people who want to live in free, prosperous, cooperative, peaceful, and just societies.For those looking for alternatives to the Nanny State, the Prohibitionist State, and the Welfare State, this book is a good place to start.