Capitalism (Paperback, 2nd New edition)

Capitalism stands unrivalled as the most enduring economic system of our times. Since the collapse of the Soviet bloc the world has become a new stage for capital, and yet despite this dominance capitalism is still not widely understood. It remains a subject of enduring interest that is discovered and rediscovered over time by each successive generation of students.

Exploring the life of this world-shaping system and the writings of leading thinkers, this study also now takes into account recent developments, including the impact of the Global Financial Crisis and the complexities of China s political economy. Paul Bowles addresses these key questions:

- what are the central, unchanging features of capitalism?

- how does capitalism vary from place to place and over time?

- does capitalism improve our lives?

- is capitalism a system which is natural and free ? Or is it unjust and unstable?

- what about today s global capitalism?

- will capitalism destroy or liberate us?

This updated edition of a classic text is now supported by a comprehensive documents section, chronology and who s who, as well as a new colour plate section. It offers a concise, lucid and thought-provoking introduction for undergraduate students or anyone with an interest in this most pervasive, long lasting and adaptable yet crisis-ridden of economic systems.