Justin Yifu Lin Livres

An insightful account of the remarkable transition of the Chinese economy from impoverished backwater to economic powerhouse.

The book presents a compelling argument for 'new structural economics,' emphasizing the evolution of economic ideas and their practical implications for development policy. Justin Yifu Lin's analysis is particularly relevant for policymakers in developing countries, addressing the unique challenges they face. It offers insights that will resonate with practitioners who navigate the complexities of economic development, making it an essential read for those interested in contemporary economic strategies.

Focusing on South-South development aid, this book explores cooperation among BRICS nations and other developing countries through the lens of New Structural Economics. It analyzes the dynamics of economic growth and development strategies, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities faced by these nations in fostering collaborative partnerships and sustainable development.

Highlighting the potential for economic growth in developing nations, the book showcases inspiring examples such as Israel's transformation of the Negev Desert and Mali's flourishing mango industry. It argues that substantial development is not a prerequisite for achieving sustained economic progress, citing historical instances where countries have successfully advanced with minimal education and infrastructure. This perspective offers hope and encouragement for nations striving for economic improvement.

The book delves into the reasons behind the economic struggles of many developing countries, exploring systemic issues and missed opportunities. Through the insights of a leading Chinese economist, it examines the factors that hinder growth, such as governance, infrastructure, and education. The analysis offers a critical perspective on economic policies and practices, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by these nations in realizing their full potential.

This powerful book brings encouraging news to developing countries. A nation does not have to be developed to achieve economic growth: Witness Israel's cultivation of the Negev Desert and Mali's vibrant mango industry. History gives striking examples of take off into sustained growth with little education and not much infrastructure either. - Edmund Phelps, Nobel Laureate in Economics

How developing countries can help themselvesHow can developing countries grow their economies? Most answers to this question center on what the rich world should or shouldn't do for the poor world. In The Quest for Prosperity , Justin Yifu Lin―the first non-Westerner to be chief economist of the World Bank―focuses on what developing nations can do to help themselves.Since the end of the Second World War, prescriptions for economic growth have come and gone. Often motivated more by ideology than practicality, these blueprints have had mixed success on the ground. Drawing lessons from history, economic analysis, and practice, Lin examines how the countries that have succeeded in developing their own economies have actually done it. He shows that economic development is a process of continuous technological innovation, industrial upgrading, and structural change driven by how countries harness their land, labor, capital, and infrastructure. Countries need to identify and facilitate the development of those industries where they have a comparative advantage―where they can produce products most effectively―and use them as a basis for development. At the same time, states need to recognize the power of markets, limiting the role of government to allow firms to flourish and lead the process of technological innovation and industrial upgrading. By following this "new structural economics" framework, Lin shows how even the poorest nations can grow at eight percent or more continuously for several decades, significantly reduce poverty, and become middle- or even high-income countries in the span of one or two generations.Interwoven with insights, observations, and stories from Lin's travels as chief economist of the World Bank and his reflections on China's rise, this book provides a road map and hope for those countries engaged in their own quest for prosperity.