The challenge of the immense changes in the economy over the past fifty years is twofold – to adapt to themand to shape them. But in order to see where we are going we must understand where we have come fromand applying the tools of economic analysis used by businesses and governments can help. This fascinating and instructive collection of essays brings together thirteen distinguished economists to examine the economic changes of the second half of the last century in order to find lessons for the next. Ranging from monetary policy and world trade to environmental matters, the rise and fall of inflation and the role of the economist in business planning, these essays review the major economic developments and ideas of the last fifty years. Their authors include Roger Bootle, Professor Charles Goodhart, Sir Samuel Brittan, John Kayand other well-know business economists, academics and financial journalists. The Challenge of Change is published in association with the society of Business Economists, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2003. Compiled and edited by Jim Hirst, editor of the Business Economist, this stimulating and thoughtful collection provides an accessible summary of current economic thinkingand an often provocative selection of opinions on some major economic issues facing the business world today.