this book is timely, given how the anti-globalisation movement draws so much attention. The book s strength lies in how it examines diverse economies of the Asia-Pacific region. Islam and Hossain s volume provides a solid and informative foundation for addressing these highly important themes. Brian J. McVeigh, Geschichte Transnational This book illustrates contested perspectives on globalisation represented by the diverse experiences of selected economies within the Asia-Pacific region, namely Australia, China, India and Sri Lanka as case studies. Academics and practitioners from national governments and international organisations have contributed their unique experiences and skill-sets to a volume written in a non-technical but rigorous fashion, enabling the reader to follow complex and technical debates pertaining to globalisation. The book begins by studying the nature of disagreements among economists on the benefits and costs of globalisation, highlighting ways in which one can consolidate the gains from globalisation while mitigating its costs, offering a critique of macroeconomic conservatism and discussing the promises, pitfalls and perils of foreign direct investment. The contributors then go on to anchor global debates in regional and country specific circumstances.

The issues discussed range from broad political economy perspectives to industry case studies but all are united by concerns about socio-economic disparities in an age of globalisation. Scholars and researchers at many levels and in many fields of study including Asian studies and international economics will find this readable volume of great interest and value, as will policymakers.