An authoritative introduction to Global Political Economy.The book covers all bases: contemporary theory, introductions to particular issue areas, and an extended debate on globalization that reflects a variety of perspectives. The book is accompanied by an Online Resource Centre. Student resources: Timeline Web links Glossary Instructor resources: Tables and figures from the book to download 2 in-depth case studies
The most balanced blend of empirical material and analysis from leading scholars of Global Political Economy. Written by leading international specialists, Global Political Economy is a comprehensive yet accessible introduction to the field. Skilfully interweaving history, theory, and topical issues and debates, the authors offer an authoritative and stimulating guide; which not only informs but also encourages readers to critically examine their own perspectives on the subject. New to this edition, Thoroughly updated to incorporate recent developments, such as the Trump administration Brexit, and populism, Enhanced coverage of the political economy of the environment, New material on globalization, inequality, and poverty Book jacket.
Since the launch of Bitcoin in 2009 several hundred different ‘cryptocurrencies’ have been developed and become accepted for a wide variety of transactions in leading online commercial marketplaces and the ‘sharing economy’, as well as by more traditional retailers, manufacturers, and even by charities and political parties. Bitcoin and its competitors have also garnered attention for their wildly fluctuating values as well as implication in international money laundering, Ponzi schemes and online trade in illicit goods and services across borders. These and other controversies surrounding cryptocurrencies have induced varying governance responses by central banks, government ministries, international organizations, and industry regulators worldwide. Besides formal attempts to ban Bitcoin, there have been multifaceted efforts to incorporate elements of blockchains, the peer-to-peer technology underlying cryptocurrencies, in the wider exchange, recording, and broadcasting of digital transactions. Blockchains are being mobilized to support and extend an array of governance activities. The novelty and breadth of growing blockchain-based activities have fuelled both utopian promises and dystopian fears regarding applications of the emergent technology to Bitcoin and beyond. This volume brings scholars of anthropology, economics, Science and Technology Studies, and sociology together with GPE scholars in assessing the actual implications posed by Bitcoin and blockchains for contemporary global governance. Its interdisciplinary contributions provide academics, policymakers, industry practitioners and the general public with more nuanced understandings of technological change in the changing character of governance within and across the borders of nation-states.
