Recent decades have seen the study of politics invaded by economic theories, methods and techniques. This book gives a concise, non- technical account of these ''public choice'' theories and examines their influence upon government policies in English-speaking countries. Issues covered include slimming the state, privatising welfare and re- structuring government. Final chapters offer an alternative view of the basis of good government. This book offers a unique survey and critique of the ideas and influence of an important branch of political thought and its links with market theories.

Recent decades have seen the study of politics invaded by economic theories, methods and techniques. This book gives a concise, non- technical account of these ''public choice'' theories and examines their influence upon government policies in English-speaking countries. Issues covered include slimming the state, privatising welfare and re- structuring government. Final chapters offer an alternative view of the basis of good government. This book offers a unique survey and critique of the ideas and influence of an important branch of political thought and its links with market theories.