'Colin Read has presented a useful account of the modern financial system and the pitfalls of the current regulatory structure. This book will be very helpful to those trying to make sense of the current financial crisis' - Dean Baker, Co-Director, Center for Economic Policy Research, Washington, D.C., USA 'Professor Read adroitly straddles the divide ... Read morebetween arcane economic reasoning and the layperson's appetite for understanding the intricacies of the modern financial system. The book presumes some basic knowledge of economics in its coverage of a rather extensive landscape of topics. At the same time, it eschews heavy theoretical exposition in favor of a conversational approach with moorings at key points in history and a blend of social commentary. Professor Read is thoughtful and provocative in building toward his global prescriptions for a better economic future.' - Wade Thomas, Professor of Economics, State University of New York College at Oneonta, USA 'GetAbstract recommends this comprehensive manual to anyone who wants a firmer, basic understanding of economics.' - getAbstract.com Show Less