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Stealth Of Nations: The Global Rise Of The Informal Economy (2010)

by Robert Neuwirth(Favorite Author)

3.59 of 5 Votes: 3

ISBN

037542489X (ISBN13: 9780375424892)

languge

English

genre

Nonfiction

publisher

Pantheon

review 1: An amazing look at how half of the world earns money. Neuwirth introduces us to entrepreneurs in South America, Africa and Asia who are making a living (sometimes barely) in what he calls "System D," or the unofficial, underground and often illegal economy. You don't have to visit a large flea market or be accosted by purse vendors in Rome to come in contact with System D. Neuwirth counters many of the arguments against the system with a few steady points: governments not only can't stop the system but actually benefit from it, it works for many people, and the official economic system often does no better than System D at protecting workers' health or rights.
review 2: "Stealth of Nations" revolves around the sole proprietor in the informal economy. Instead o... moref a summary of studies on the informal economy, Neuwirth (a journalist) narrates this book around his travels to different parts of the world and his interactions with different sole proprietors. By interacting with real members of the informal economy, Neuwirth shows the reader the informal economy's benefits and challenges, as well as how businesses and the government should respond in today's world to the informal economy. In making policy recommendations, Neuwirth does a remarkable job of challenging those who favor regulations of businesses, as well as businesses that favor a strong intellectual property regime. I didn't agree with all the policy suggestions Neuwirth makes in this book, but "Stealth of Nations" is still thought-provoking and illuminating. less

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