The Future of the Global Economy

Powerful forces of change are converging that could set the stage for a long, sustained economic boom in the next few decades-the transition to a knowledge-based society; the emergence of more deeply integrated, global markets for goods, services, capital and technology; and a fast-growing environmental awareness that could greatly accelerate the shift to new, less resource-intensive production and consumption patterns. The result could be several decades of above-average economic growth, substantial increases in income and wealth, and significant improvements in well-being across the world. But what will it take to unleash these dynamic forces? This book reviews the forces driving economic and social change in today’s world. It assesses the likelihood of a long boom materializing in the first decades of the 21st century and explores the strategic policies essential for making it happen.