Questioning globalization - Kavaljit Singh

Globalization has become the cliche of our times. The neo-liberal virus has struck almost everybody including within the ranks of the left. The proponents of neo-liberal globalization claim that it produces 'accelerated, efficient' development along with a deepening of democracy and human rights. However, reality shows the opposite and any rigorous examination of such arguments reveals their shallowness and inconsistency.Social progress and democracy can only take place in tandem and on condition that we move away from the dogmas of neo-liberalism. This book underscores the point that current economic disasters are not the 'price' we have to pay for a transition towards the promised paradise, but on the contrary are bound to get worse as long as neo-liberal economic policies are pursued.This book makes a critical analysis of several contemporary debates around globalization. With the help of case studies, statistical data and cogent analysis, the book debunks several myths associated with globalization processes. Written for a non-technical audience readership, the author fundamentally questions the viewpoints held by the 'hyper-globalists'. His book not only contributes to deepening the current debates on globalization but ought to become an indispensable tool of analysis for concerned citizens, students, social and political activists, labour unions, NGOs, and policy makers.

Kavaljit Singh is Director of Public Interest Research Centre, Delhi, a policy research institute working on finance, investment and developmental issues. He is the author of highly acclaimed and widely published book, The Globalization of Finance: A Citizen's Guide (DAGA, IPSR Books, Madhyam Books and Zed Books, 1998). His latest book is Taming Global Financial Flows: Challenges and Alternatives in an Era of Financial Globalization (Hong Kong University Press, DAGA, IBON Books, Madhyam Books, University Press, White Lotus and Zed Books, 2000). He is also the founder of Madhyam Books, an independent publishing house, publishing books on contemporary issues.

'Questioning Globalization is needed. Kavaljit Singh has produced a most convincing book on globalization issues. He writes in a clear non-jargon style accessible to all policy and opinion makers. I highly recommend the book to all activists including those who are already convinced that neo-liberalism must be defeated.'
Samir Amin, director of Forum Tiers Monde, Senegal, and author of Obsolescent Capitalism

'Kavaljit Singh has written a brilliant and succinct series of responses to a number of basic questions which have academic and political relevance. This book will serve as a valuable text for all readers interested in the political economy of globalization and imperialism, aid and governance, and the role of the nation-state.'
James Petras, author of Globalization Unmasked

'In easily-understandable language, Kavaljit Singh offers an excellent critique of globalisation by showing why the current form of globalisation is neither beneficial nor unavoidable.'
Development & Cooperation International Journal, Volume 33

'Singh has produced an important compilation and distillation of the key debates surrounding globalization for activists, students and the general public. This book would serve as a useful starting point for each of these groups and is ideally suited as an introductory text for university students.'
Development and Change