A World Fit for People

A World Fit for People examines what impact the many dramatic worldwide changes—political, economic, social, cultural—are having on the lives of people all over the world. A collaborative effort of more than fifty thinkers from countries throughout the world, this remarkable book contains a range of specific proposals intended to convert threats to opportunities and fears to hopes, in order to foster an environment of peace, prosperity, and social harmony. Part One examines political aspects of changing systems and the links between democracy, development, and the market economy, addressing such issues as rising regionalism, "The West and the Rest," northern policies and southern responses, and the global role of transition countries. Part Two focuses on economic aspects of systemic change. Topics include the role of markets and governments in a free market economy, the plight of developing countries, conditions for aid, and the collapsing vision of global development. The roles of women and family, ethnic conflict, and religion and, more generally, the human, social, cultural, and ecological aspects of change, are considered in Part Three. The contributors advocate a respect for human rights and ethnic and religious diversity as a means of ensuring a pluralistic society. Part Four, which pays special attention to countries trying to overcome the legacy of "the old order," is devoted to such issues as the integration of underdeveloped countries into the global order; the privatization process; trade and payments reforms; and the risks of rapid transformation. A World Fit for People will serve as a useful guide to international economists, diplomats, political scientists, and students of international affairs.