"This book describes how, after the end of World War II, powerful corporations began to lobby governments in an effort to reduce the perceived constraints of regulation. Since the 1970s these voices have become increasingly influential, as governments worldwide have adopted free-market policies, reduced economic regulation and promoted the virtues of free-enterprise capitalism." "The Global Economic System since 1945 presents a fresh synthesis of economic history and theory. For the specialist, it will provide a useful reminder that the economy needs to be looked at from different angles, while the general reader will find a fascinating and impartial description of the current state of the global economy - as well as hints on what to look for when scanning the economic horizon for signs of inclement weather."--BOOK JACKET.