Globalization and Inequality

A very well done survey of what we know about this issue, from a leader in the field. -- Tyler Cowen * Marginal Revolution * No one with any interest in current trade policy debates could ask for a better summer read…There is an almost voyeuristic joy in learning [Helpman’s] thoughts on one of the most pressing questions of our times. * Israel Economic Review * In the U.S., there is a backlash against free trade. Many believe globalization is responsible for rising income inequality. The central purpose of this book is to clarify that this belief is not based on evidence…Helpman concludes that the existing evidence does not support the position that increasing free trade has given rise to growing inequality. * Choice * A wonderful work of great contemporary importance. -- Stephen J. Redding, Princeton University Elhanan Helpman has produced a magisterial account of the study of globalization, earnings, and income inequality. Deftly weaving discussion of economic theory, empirical analysis, and quantitative modeling, Globalization and Inequality brings social science to life. -- Gordon Hanson, University of California, San Diego Globalization is simultaneously heralded as the engine of economic progress and maligned as a prime cause of job loss and inequality. In this wonderfully readable book that brings some sanity to this debate, Elhanan Helpman summarizes and extends what we have learned from decades of economic research. A must-read for anyone interested in understanding how our economy is changing and how we can hope to benefit from globalization without suffering some of its nasty side effects. -- Daron Acemoglu, Massachusetts Institute of Technology