Government for the Public Good The Surprising Science of Large-Scale Collective Action

The book goes to the heart of one of the dominant ideas of the last few decades – that markets should take over more of the tasks previously done by governments. Casting a broad sweep through the evidence on privatisation, deregulation and other market-based reforms, it shows they have often not delivered. But rather than just criticising the market, the book makes a strong case for government, showing how classic public services have often proved far more effective than we generally think, and outlining a positive vision for how government could work still better – and regain people’s trust – in the twenty-first century. A powerful defence of active government, the book shows how, around the world, forums that allow citizens to intelligently debate issues together and directly shape policy are already delivering better public services and deepening democracy. At a time when ideas and politics are in turmoil, the book offers a new way to navigate our future together. Max Rashbrooke