Unravel the complexities of public finance with 'The Debt Delusion.' This enlightening book challenges the widely-held belief that governments should only spend what they earn in taxes, a notion that is prevalent in Europe and North America. Readers will discover how the common phrases such as 'living within your means' and 'balancing the budget' contribute to a prevailing narrative that fears debt and taxation. John Weeks skillfully dismantles these misconceptions, revealing them to be part of the 'debt delusion'—a collection of misleading ideas underpinning harmful austerity measures. This insightful guide goes beyond technical jargon, making it accessible for readers with no prior economic knowledge. It encourages a deeper understanding of public spending, taxation, and debt's roles in economic management. As you navigate the intricate political landscape regarding economics, this book equips you with the tools to critically engage with the debates surrounding public finance and make informed decisions. A perfect read for those eager to explore financial literacy, economics, and the true nature of governmental budget practices. Don't miss out on this essential resource that empowers you to understand and question the dominant narratives in economic discussions. Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled. Condition: BRAND NEW. ISBN: 9781509532940. Year: 2019. Publisher: John Wiley & Sons (UK). Pages: 216.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781509532940
Year: 2019
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons (UK)
Pages: 216


Description:


˜Governments should spend no more than their tax income.™ Most people in Europe and North America accept this statement as simple common sense. It resonates with the deeply engrained economic metaphors that dominate public discourse, from ˜living within your means™ to ˜balancing the budget™ “ all necessary, or so conventional wisdom holds, to avoid the dangers of debt, taxation and financial ruin. This book shows how these homely metaphors constitute the ˜debt delusion™: a set of plausible-sounding yet false ideas that have been used to justify damaging austerity policies. John Weeks debunks these myths, explaining the true story behind public spending, taxation, and debt, and their real function in the management of our economies. He demonstrates that disputes about public finances are not primarily technical matters best left to specialists and experts, as many politicians would have us believe, but rather fundamentally questions about our true political priorities. Requiring no prior economic knowledge, this is an ideal primer for anyone wishing to cut through the rhetoric and misinformation that dominate political debates on economics and become an informed citizen.