Books: Globalization for Development

Globalization for Development: Meeting New Challenges

by Ian Goldin and Kenneth A Reinert
(Oxford University Press 2012)

Can globalization overcome poverty or is there a danger that it will make it worse?


Globalization and its relation to poverty reduction and development are not well understood. Globalization for Development by Ian Goldin and Kenneth Reinert explores this relationship. The book defines the big historical trends, identifies the main globalization processes - trade, finance, aid, migration, and ideas - and examines how each can contribute to economic development. By considering what helps and what does not, the book presents policy recommendations to make globalization more effective as a vehicle for shared growth and poverty reduction. Globalization for Development combines the authors' real world policy experience with the latest academic research. 

Ian Goldin is Director of the Oxford Martin School and Kenneth Reinert is Professor of Public Policy at George Mason University.

Press coverage and reviews:

Globalization for whom?
The Globalist, 29/03/12

The pros and cons of globalization
Interview with Ian Goldin on Russia Today TV, 23/03/12

Can globalization work for the poor?
Webcast of book launch panel discussion with IPPR 12/03/12

Comments on Globalization for Development

"This book is essential reading for anyone interested in globalization and development. It provides important new insights and perspectives into how global flows of finance, trade, migrants, and ideas shape development and advances the debate by identifying urgently needed policy changes for a more inclusive globalization." - Joseph Stiglitz, Nobel Laureate in Economics 2001 and Professor of Economics

"Globalization may need defense, but it also needs reform. The authors tell us the story so far and go on to propose ways and means of getting to a happier ending. The ways identified, based on fine empirical assessment, certainly deserve our serious attention." - Amartya Sen, Nobel Laureate in Economics 1998 and Lamont University Professor and Professor of Economics and Philosophy, Harvard University

"This book cuts through the confusion of many discussions of globalization. In particular, it gives a clear definition in terms of the basic flows that embody interaction among countries, including trade, migration, and so on. This provides a clear analytical framework for analyzing the impact of globalization on development and thus on reducing poverty. It is a first-class piece of work and a 'must-read' for those seeking clarity on one of the great issues of our time." - Professor Lord Nicholas Stern, IG Patel Professor of Economics and Government and Chair of the Grantham Research Institute, LSE

"This book draws on a wealth of cross-country experience and knowledge to demonstrate that globalization has the ability to contribute to poverty alleviation, but only under certain circumstances. As such, it provides invaluable insight to development practitioners and policy makers alike. It contains not only a lucid analytical framework in which to analyze these tradeoffs, but also some invigorating ideas on how globalization can be made to work for the poor. In this, it is a vital area for anyone concerned about a fairer sharing of our communal prosperity." - Trevor A. Manuel, Head of National Planning Commission and former Minister of Finance, South Africa

"Ian Goldin has been at the centre of action in the debate on globalization and development for a long time. His collaboration with Ken Reinert on this subject is a must for those who are looking for both courageous conceptual design and practical solutions." - Kemal Dervis, Vice President and Director of Global Economy and Development The Brookings Institution and former Head of the United Nations Development Programme

"This analysis goes beyond theory and suggests national and global policies to be adopted in order to address the dire matter of poverty. This well written book convinces readers that globalization can be made to work for the poor and is an essential guide for practitioners in this field." - Pascal Lamy, WTO Director-General

"Much has happened since the first edition of this skilful overview of issues in globalization and development. The recent turmoil in the Euro-zone and the world economy make this edition all the more timely." - Kemal Dervis, Vice President and Director, Global Economy and Development, Brookings