The author, a former World Bank insider, suggests that non-traditional approaches to solving poor countries' problems are necessary in order for improvements to occur. It is commonplace to suggest solutions that currently work in wealthy countries—ignoring the fact that most rich countries were once poor, too. However, solutions should take into account any weaknesses of government, legal, and political systems that would hinder the implementation of remedies.
The first chapter introduces examples that illustrate how country growth has been sabotaged; some examples are expanded upon in later chapters. In the next seven chapters, Anderson discusses issues such as a lack of emphasis on economic growth, not recognizing the benefits of private corporate ownership, and the ill effects of reduced competition. He describes the negative impact of government involvement in each area of the business environment discussed.
The concluding chapter presents New Zealand as an example of how reforms can successfully be implemented to strengthen the business environment, thereby improving economic conditions. This book suggests business areas where managers can focus industry-wide attention to impact change at the national level in overlooked, yet fruitful directions. —Cynthia D. Churchwell