The disparity between rich and poor countries is the most serious, intractable problem facing the world today. Chronic poverty affects more than the citizens and economies of these nations; it threatens global stability as the pressures of immigration become unsustainable and rogue nations seek power and influence through extreme political and terrorist acts. For decades, a vast array of international institutions has pumped billions of dollars into these nations in an attempt to remedy their ills through the development of technological infrastructures, educational systems, and health care programs. Yet despite this infusion of capital and attention, roughly five billion of the world's six billion people continue to live in poverty. What isn't working? And how can we fix it? "The Power of Productivity" provides powerful and controversial answers to these questions. William Lewis, director emeritus of the McKinsey Global Institute, draws on extensive microeconomic studies of thirteen nations - conducted over twelve years by the Institute itself - to counter virtually all prevailing wisdom about how best to ameliorate economic disparity. The key to reducing economic inequalities between rich and poor countries, argues Lewis, is productivity and its links to competition and consumption. Diagnosing problems and offering solutions, "The Power of Productivity" will inform political and economic debate throughout the world for years to come.

About the Author
William W. Lewis was a partner at McKinsey and Company for nearly twenty years and the Founding Director of the McKinsey Global Institute. He has served in several policymaking positions in the World Bank and the U.S. Departments of Defense and Energy.

Reviews
"Lewis... offers a detailed look at the local economies in several parts of the world including the U.S., Japan, India and Brazil.... This is an insightful treatment of a complex issue that deserves a wide readership." - Publishers Weekly "Lewis's focus on competition - in retailing and much else besides - has serious implications for development economics.... Unlike so many other management consultants-turned-author, Lewis writes with clarity and serves up his data and anecdotes in easily digestible portions.... On the whole he makes his case both persuasively and engagingly." - Hugo Restall, Wall Street Journal"



Book Information
ISBN 9780226476988
Author William W. Lewis
Format Paperback
Page Count 368
Imprint University of Chicago Press
Publisher The University of Chicago Press
Weight(grams) 595g
Dimensions(mm) 23mm * 15mm * 2mm