As the world economy leaps national boundaries, its hallmark seems to be a rising instability and a growing inequality. Financial crises in the third world come ever more frequently and seem to be ever more severe. The first world economies seem to be in ever more frantic boom and bust cycles. Globalization causes riots throughout the world and is one factor in the rise of terrorism against the West.

In this insightful book, Thurow examines this constantly changing global economy, with a special focus on the role of the US and the dangers to our own national well-being. He examines such questions as: What’s at stake for us in the global economy Why is it important that the system be equitable and that other countries prosper along with us What should our goals as a nation be—long term and short term What role should the US be playing globally

Further, Thurow shows how some nations have embraced the concept of globalization and placed themselves into a position to prosper with growing and productive national economies.

He argues that this is the time to choose globalization or be left behind; the time to “build a global economy that eliminates the defects;” and provides plenty of ideas for corporations, governments, economists, and citizens to act upon.