John Makin experienced and wrote persuasively about many of the most important economic events of the post–Cold War period. A University of Chicago–trained economist, Makin brought to his writing the benefits of academe, domestic public- and private-sector experience, and close observation of international economic developments. An Economist’s Outlook: Essays by John H. Makin from a Transformative Era brings together some of his most important writings. They provide unique insights into economic events from 1992 to 2014, a tumultuous, transformative period beginning with the end of the Cold War. This collection begins with a look at fundamentals of economic policy, exploring concepts such as inflation, disinflation, and deflation. The second section applies Makin’s keen understanding to events in the US and abroad, with particular emphasis on Japan’s economic experience, the tech and housing bubbles, and the financial crash. Makin was an important voice on economic issues in the think tank and policy worlds. His perspective was always independent, earning him widespread respect across the political spectrum. This collection is an invaluable guide for both the beginner who wants to understand economic history, concepts, and policymaking and the seasoned expert who will appreciate Makin’s impressive range and always thoughtful perspective on a transformative economic period.

John Makin experienced and wrote persuasively about many of the most important economic events of the post–Cold War period. A University of Chicago–trained economist, Makin brought to his writing the benefits of academe, domestic public- and private-sector experience, and close observation of international economic developments. An Economist’s Outlook: Essays by John H. Makin from a Transformative Era brings together some of his most important writings. They provide unique insights into economic events from 1992 to 2014, a tumultuous, transformative period beginning with the end of the Cold War. This collection begins with a look at fundamentals of economic policy, exploring concepts such as inflation, disinflation, and deflation. The second section applies Makin’s keen understanding to events in the US and abroad, with particular emphasis on Japan’s economic experience, the tech and housing bubbles, and the financial crash. Makin was an important voice on economic issues in the think tank and policy worlds. His perspective was always independent, earning him widespread respect across the political spectrum. This collection is an invaluable guide for both the beginner who wants to understand economic history, concepts, and policymaking and the seasoned expert who will appreciate Makin’s impressive range and always thoughtful perspective on a transformative economic period.

Seventeen developing countries owe a total of $1.3 trillion to commercial banks, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. A booming world economy or a series of drastic domestic reforms might enable these countries to meet their obligations, but neither appears on the horizon. What should - or can - the debtor nations, the creditor nations, the IMF and the World Bank do in the face of this crisis? Recognized experts offer their thoughts on developing-country debt problems.