Global Political Economy: Evolution and Dynamics

by Robert O'Brien, Marc Williams

This fully revised fifth edition continues to offer the authoritative introduction to today’s global political economy and its historical context. O'Brien and Williams move beyond the traditional three-paradigm perspective to show how these theories can be applied and their efficacy in tackling key developments and issues. In doing so, the authors offer an all-encompassing analysis of the multiple theories, themes, and issues to create a comprehensive guide to the topic.

The authors first trace the evolution of the global economy from its roots in fifteenth century through the Industrial Revolution, to the post-1945 world order. They then proceed to explore in more detail the dynamics of today's global political economy, providing systematic coverage of the key spheres of activity, from trade, production and finance to social divisions, development, the environment, ideas, security and governance.  This edition includes new material on the Greek financial crisis and the changing role of the BRICS countries in global governance, as these developments upset the dominance of the US and Europe in the world economy today.

Supported by multiple boxed exhibits, further reading links, and a fully-featured companion website, this text is designed to be as accessible as possible. Online, students will find essay and multiple choice questions, podcasts and videos, timelines, and other materials to help consolidate learning. 

Genres: Nonfiction, Politics, Economics, International Relations, Academic

376 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2003

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Reviews

[✨ Helena ✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my main textbook for my IPE course this term. It’s definitely a better alternative to studying Microeconomics and Macroeconomics, themselves, although, at times, this book assumed that I was well-versed in concepts that I wasn’t. Google was definitely my friend! I study POLITICS, INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS, and HISTORY, not ECONOMICS.

Having said that, the book is spilt into two parts. The first part is the historical background of how the political economy evolved into what it is today. The second part was about the current economy and the different issues that influence it. My prof chose mainly to focus on the illicit economy, as that is his area of expertise. I liked that this book wasn’t TOO DRY and had orange boxes on the pages that brought your attention to information you might not have known. It wasn’t too difficult to get into, but again, I’m not too fond of economic theory, so I probably wouldn’t recommend it to anyone, unless they were truly interested in IPE.

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, I can't believe m International Political Economy book is on Goodreads! THis was the most straight forward of all the books that I read during my studies in Bristol. It had current relevan examples that helped me understand economics better than before. It was a real eye opener to the injustices of the world bank and the IMF. It encompassed so many ideas in simple and logical manners that made it enjoyable to study.

[Esther · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent overview of an emerging subject.. Gritty yet well balanced. I like the inclusion of gender, environment and labour.

[Vas ☀️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible, holistic and comprehensive analysis of the Global Political Economy. The really enjoyed the first 5 (introductory in my opinion) chapters since they provide you with a good understanding of global political economy history, and the history of it as an academic subject as well. As well as the final chapter that focus on some of the most pressing issues of the 21st century.

However, in order to acquire all that this book has to offer, one must have a background in international trade and a good understanding of micro and macroeconomics. Therefore it shouldn't be used as an introduction to global economics.

[Rosie K. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read for Intro to IRG (International Relations and Global Studies) class.
Not the best textbook when it comes to dealing with the world. It's mostly true and correct, but there are many places where the authors' Eurocentric and/or capitalist lens shows.
When will we get textbooks written by POC, or at least with better treatment of POC (especially Indigenous) perspectives?

[Milagro OrtizBrenes · Rating 1 out of 5]

X era algo de la universidad

[H.S. Bourgi · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent overview of prevailing theories in the sphere of global political economy. O'Brien and Williams provide a great reconstruction of the current global paradigm and how it emerged, beginning with the industrial revolution. The text provides an interesting survey of the global economy, including international trade, transnational production, the global financial system and the global division of labour. A great reference tool for anyone looking to understand the political motives and paradigms behind economics.

[Ruby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really easy to read and comprehend. Clearly set out and inclusion of historical perspective is really useful and - dare I say? - interesting.

[Revan Ahmedov · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent

[Catalina · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book would have benefited from the perspectives of multiple authors. It is a good introductory course base, but I would not recommend it for upper levels or someone with background on the topic.