Global Political Economy: Evolution and Dynamics

(Hardback, 6th edition)

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Offering an accessible introduction to both the historical roots and the contemporary dynamics of todays world economy, the extensively revised sixth edition of this bestselling textbook continues to lead the way in equipping students with the knowledge required to make sense of the fast-paced discipline of Global Political Economy. Illustrating the breadth of the subject, the books authors both highly regarded experts in the field show how the national and international interact, while also placing an emphasis on the historical evolution of the world economy in order to appreciate the nuances of todays economic structures. The global economy is traced from the Industrial Revolution through each phase of a shifting world order to the modern day. Then follows an engaging exploration of the dynamics of todays economy, including: trade, production, finance, labour, gender, development, the environment, security and governance. This takes into account the latest developments in the global economy, from automation and the challenges posed to the labour force, to artificial intelligence and the increasing complex, global supply chains of modern transnational firms. This is the most authoritative and accessible textbook on global political economy, making it the ideal companion for students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, on politics, international relations and related degrees. New to this Edition: - Extensively updated to feature the latest empirical developments, including rising economic nationalism, US trade wars with China, and populism. - Brand new boxed features illustrate the latest dynamics, including the impact of digital technologies, artificial intelligence and automation, and the growth and consequences of increasing inequality. - Greater coverage of the sustained threats to the liberal international order and likely future scenarios. Accompanying online resources for this title can be found at bloomsburyonlineresources.com/global-political-economy-6e. These resources are designed to support teaching and learning when using this textbook and are available at no extra cost.

Reviews

Are you looking for a highly accessible and comprehensive introduction to international political economy Go no further. From its first to its current edition, Global Political Economy by OBrien and Williams has provided a fantastic resource, covering the most important theories as well as empirical topics in an extremely engaging way. * Andreas Bieler, University of Nottingham, UK *
OBrien and Williams sixth edition of this highly regarded textbook continues to deliver. It is by far the most accessible undergraduate textbook on global political economy, with simple explanations of complex phenomena and relevant real-world examples. The authors continue to do an excellent job of balancing rigor with accessibility. * Kelly Gerard, University of Western Australia, Australia *
OBrien and Williams have written one of the most thorough and well-balanced introductions to IPE on the market. This updated edition provides students with an unsurpassed resource for learning about our subject, and will be of value to them throughout their studies. Please use it! * Randall Germain, Carleton University, Canada *
As a lecturer with a very interdisciplinary student profile (from Business Schools, Development Studies, Politics, Philosophy and International Relations) OBrien and Williams Global Political Economy offers the solid foundational guide that brings them all on to the same page. This excellent textbook permits me to build on common knowledge obtained through student reading, and to then push analysis through further reading. * Elizabeth Cobbett, University of East Anglia, UK *
No other textbook introduces students to the scope and diversity of thought that OBrien and Williams present. This book stays true to the interdisciplinary founding spirit of GPE, providing a diverse toolkit for readers to lay a foundation for a deep understanding of how the world works and how it may change. * Peter Beattie, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong *
Global Political Economy is a mainstay reference in IR teaching, and OBrien and Williams manage to keep it remarkably relevant and useful in this sixth edition. Their combination of history, theoretical foundations and current themes continues to guide readers to a profound understanding of the subject. * Erik Andersson, University of Gothenburg, Sweden *
Global Political Economy by OBrien and Williams is the core textbook on my second-year GPE module. It provides an accessible introduction to the theoretical perspectives on GPE, the evolution of the global economy and key issues in GPE. The new version builds on and updates the previous version to include key developments in GPE such as the growth in trade protectionism and the impact of blockchain and AI, as well as new and updated information boxes on key issues, ensuring that it will continue to be an essential resource for students. * Helen Hawthorne, Middlesex University, UK *
I have successfully used earlier editions of this engaging book in my introductory IPE courses. This new edition takes account of key developments in the world and in the field without losing a distinctive historical and conceptual perspective. Students will find it comprehensive and accessible. * Louis W. Pauly, University of Toronto, Canada *
I am very excited to see the new edition. The most comprehensive, theoretically-balanced, historically-grounded and policy-relevant IPE text currently available now includes the most important new developments in the world economy. * Anna Lanoszka, University of Windsor, Canada *
Now in its sixth edition, this comprehensive textbook has stood the test of time. It provides historical and theoretical context for a wide range of issues and debates in international political economy and the most recent edition offers much-needed perspective on unfolding developments, ranging from the rise of economic nationalism, the globalisation of state capitalism, rapid technological change and climate change. * Lauge Poulsen, University College, London, UK *
The updated edition of O'Brien & Williams absolutely delivers on its promise. My students will enjoy the books clear language, and will find its renewed emphasis on contemporary controversies to be highly engaging, practical and informative. Global Political Economy deserves to be the standard introduction to this growing field. * Adam Sneyd, University of Guelph, Canada *

Author Bio

Robert O'Brien is Professor of Political Science at McMaster University, Canada. He has published books and articles on the subjects of international trade, global labour issues, social movements and international economic institutions, global social policy. Marc Williams is Professor of International Relations, at The University of New South Wales, Australia. His research focuses on global environmental politics, social movements, and global economic governance.