A World of Insecurity: Democratic Disenchantment in Rich and Poor Countries

In this wide-ranging scholarly treatise, UC Berkeley economist Bardhan (Indian Polity and Economy) examines why countries around the world are falling for “the siren song of authoritarianism” and offers policy proposals for addressing the problem. Noting that both “rich industrial countries” and “relatively poor developing countries” have seen breakdowns in democratic and civic norms and the rise of populist and ethnonationalist movements, Bardhan argues that economic and cultural “insecurity” is the driving factor behind these developments. To address it, he proposes an end to “overcentralization in the name of national unity” and the fostering of local business development and decision-making. Most ambitiously, Bardhan calls for a rejuvenated form of social democracy that would meet people’s health, housing, and financial needs without interfering with capitalism’s “innovative capacity.” Specifically, he proposes a universal basic income, the expansion of workers’ rights, immigration policies based on relieving “specific skill shortages,” and subsidized job training programs for renewable energy industries. Though Bardhan’s “insecurity” thesis offers a useful model for drawing comparisons and contrasts between countries, the book feels more like a hodgepodge than a unified argument. Still, policy makers, labor activists, and economists will find much to chew on. (Oct.)