Building the new American economy : smart, fair, and sustainable / Jeffrey D. Sachs ; foreword by Bernie Sanders.

Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

In this passionate and powerful book--part manifesto, part plan of action--the renowned economist Jeffrey D. Sachs offers a practical strategy to move America, seemingly more divided than ever, toward a new consensus: sustainable development. Sustainable development is a holistic approach that emphasizes economic, social, and environmental objectives in shaping policy. In focusing too much on economic growth, the United States has neglected rising economic inequality and dire environmental threats. Now, even growth is imperiled.

Sachs explores issues that have captivated the nation and political debate, including infrastructure, trade deals, energy policy, the proper size and role of government, the national debt, and income inequality. Not only does he provide illuminating and accessible explanations of the forces at work in each case, but he also presents specific policy solutions. His argument rises above the pessimism born of political paralysis, economic stagnation, and partisanship to devise a brighter way forward, achievable both individually and collectively. In Building the New American Economy , Sachs shows how the United States can find a path to renewed economic progress that is fair and environmentally sustainable.

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

Sachs (Columbia) confronts Trump's idea of rebuilding the US and particularly its infrastructure. Sachs sees an energy system that is out-of-date for a climate-threatened economy, vulnerable coastal areas, and boarded-up Rust Belt cities. The book explores the economic choices that face the US at the start of the Trump administration. It focuses on long-term societal objectives centered on sustainable development. Sustainable development involves an economic policy that promotes economic growth and decent jobs, fairness to women, the poor, and minorities, and environmental sustainability. Sachs discusses Wall Street's need to underwrite an age of sustainable investments in renewables, self-driving vehicles, and the internet of things. He foresees a time when robots and expert systems perform all the unpleasant and humdrum work. He sees the need to move resources from the military to the rest of society and invest in innovations. The main thing the US should do is to set ambitious, sustainable development goals that inspire everyone to work together for a better world. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through faculty. --Charles Wankel, St. John's University, New York