The Bottom Line
The Real Wealth of Nations by Riane Eisler. 318 pages. A must-read for anyone trying to understand how the economy needs to be shaped to create truly sustainable economic growth. Ms. Eisler was named as one of the world's 20 Great Peacemakers. She was given the 2009 Distinguished Peace Leadership Award by the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation. She serves as
President of the Center for Partnership Studies (CPS) and as a
Councilor on the World Future Council. She is also the author of The Chalice and the Blade.
Pros
- Fresh, new way to look at economics.
- Important point to consider if we want a sustainable economy.
- Well-researched.
- Lots of good examples
Cons
- I'd love a 75-page version that could be read in one sitting.
Description
- Introduction. Reasons to Care.
- Chapter 1. We Need a New Economics.
- Chapter 2. Economics Through a Wider Lens.
- Chapter 3. It Pays to Care - Dollars and Cents.
- Chapter 4. The Economic Double Standard.
- Chapter 5. Connecting the Dots.
- Chapter 6. The Economics of Domination.
- Chapter 7. The Economics of Partnership.
- Chapter 8. Technology, Work and the Postindustrial Era.
- Chapter 9. Who We Are and Where We Are.
Chapter 10. The Caring Revolution.
Guide Review - The Real Wealth of Nations
Why do Nordic countries consistently rank high in the World Economic Forum's Global Competitiveness Report? According to Riane Eisler's book, The Real Wealth of Nations, it is because their fiscal budget focuses on the real drivers of economic growth: world-class education, social programs that provide real value, and a high standard of living. This results in a highly skilled and motivated work force. Yes, these countries have a high tax rate, but the revenues are used to invest in long-term economic growth.This contrasts with the U.S., which has used debt to finance short-term growth through boosting consumer and military spending.
This is just one of many examples Ms. Eisler uses to support her argument that economic models must be changed to measure the true costs of economic growth. For example, at home child care is not included in GDP, and so is not valued. The cost of disposing of plastic is not included in its price, making it comparatively cheap. The true standard of living will be raised when all of these components are measured. Only when something is measured will it become important.
