Localization: A Global Manifesto

by Colin Hines

Overview

Localization is a manifesto to unite all those who recognize the importance of cultural, social and ecological diversity for our future - and who do not aspire to a monolithic global consumer culture. It is a passionate and persuasive polemic, challenging the claims that we have to be 'internationally competitive' to survive and describing the destructive consequences of globalization. This book is unique in going beyond simply criticizing free trade and globalization trends. It details self-reinforcing policies to create local self-sufficiency and shows clearly that there is an alternative to globalization - to protect the local, globally.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781853836121
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	03/01/2000
Edition description:	1
Pages:	304
Product dimensions:	5.44(w) x 8.50(h) x (d)

About the Author

COLIN HINES is a Fellow of the International Forum on Globalization, former head of Greenpeace's International Economics Unit and co-author of The New Protectionism: Protecting the Future Against Free Trade.

Table of Contents

PART I THE PROBLEM - GLOBALIZATION * Globalization - What it is and the Damage it Does * History and WTO Enforcing of Comparative Advantage * Theory and Attempted Enforcement of Capital Advantage * PART II THE SOLUTION - LOCALIZATION * From Globalization to Localization - A Potential Rallying Call * Localization - Increasing Community Renewal * 'Protect the Local, Globally' - A Route to Localization * Localizing Production and Dismantling Transnational Companies * Localizing Capital * A Localist Competition Policy * Taxes for Localization * Democratic Localism * Trade and Aid for Localization * PART III HOW LOCALIZATION MIGHT COME ABOUT * Growing Opposition * Globalization - Destroying Jobs, Increasing Deflation * A Localist Wake-up Call to Political Activists * Failure to Adequately Champion Globalization - Social Services, Unions and Culture * Localizing International Development * Localizing Food Security * The WTO and the Environment * Controversial Conclusion - Localization Will Bale Out the Market * Appendices * A Global Manifesto * Notes and References * Suggested Reading

Editorial Reviews

Hines, a fellow of the International Forum on Globalization and formerly head of Greenpeace's International Economic Unit, offers a refreshing twist on the mantra of the inevitability of a globalized economy. He calls his work a "mindwrench" away from acquiescence with mainstream economists and commentators who embrace globalization. Outlining the adverse effects international competition is now having on society, equity, and the environment, he details national and regional policies that could provide an alternative. Hines's aim is to help shift debate toward a focus on what the goals of world trade should be, as well as outlining concrete steps that can lead to a more just, environmentally sustainable future. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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