Barry Naughton, a leading expert on the Chinese economy, is known for his pioneering research on China's "Third Front" construction, his co-authored paper with John McMillan on China's gradual market economy transition compared to Russia and Eastern Europe's big bang strategy, and his monograph on the macroeconomic aspects of China's economic reforms. His book, "The Chinese Economy: Transitions and Growth," is a comprehensive and up-to-date textbook on the Chinese economy, covering a wide range of topics including industrial growth, agricultural support for the world's largest population, income inequality, environmental issues, trade, and fiscal and financial matters. The book's key features include: 1. **Comprehensive Coverage**: It addresses all essential aspects of the Chinese economy, from industrialization to social issues. 2. **New Information**: The content is updated through at least 2005, reflecting the rapidly changing nature of the Chinese economy. 3. **Clear Writing**: The book is written in a straightforward manner, making it accessible to readers without a background in economics. The book is divided into seven parts: 1. **Past Heritage and Background**: Discusses the geographical, historical, and social context of modern China. 2. **Growth and Development Patterns**: Explores economic growth, population dynamics, labor, human capital, and income distribution. 3. **Rural Economy**: Analyzes rural organizations, agriculture, and rural industries. 4. **Urban Economy**: Covers corporate ownership and governance, industrial and energy structure changes, and technological policies. 5. **China and the World Economy**: Focuses on trade and direct investment. 6. **Macroeconomics and Finance**: Discusses fiscal policy, inflation, and the financial system. 7. **Conclusion: China's Future**: Focuses on environmental issues and the sustainability of growth. Naughton's interpretations are generally well-received, though some points differ from other scholars' views. The book is praised for its balanced and nuanced approach, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the Chinese economy.Barry Naughton, a leading expert on the Chinese economy, is known for his pioneering research on China's "Third Front" construction, his co-authored paper with John McMillan on China's gradual market economy transition compared to Russia and Eastern Europe's big bang strategy, and his monograph on the macroeconomic aspects of China's economic reforms. His book, "The Chinese Economy: Transitions and Growth," is a comprehensive and up-to-date textbook on the Chinese economy, covering a wide range of topics including industrial growth, agricultural support for the world's largest population, income inequality, environmental issues, trade, and fiscal and financial matters. The book's key features include: 1. **Comprehensive Coverage**: It addresses all essential aspects of the Chinese economy, from industrialization to social issues. 2. **New Information**: The content is updated through at least 2005, reflecting the rapidly changing nature of the Chinese economy. 3. **Clear Writing**: The book is written in a straightforward manner, making it accessible to readers without a background in economics. The book is divided into seven parts: 1. **Past Heritage and Background**: Discusses the geographical, historical, and social context of modern China. 2. **Growth and Development Patterns**: Explores economic growth, population dynamics, labor, human capital, and income distribution. 3. **Rural Economy**: Analyzes rural organizations, agriculture, and rural industries. 4. **Urban Economy**: Covers corporate ownership and governance, industrial and energy structure changes, and technological policies. 5. **China and the World Economy**: Focuses on trade and direct investment. 6. **Macroeconomics and Finance**: Discusses fiscal policy, inflation, and the financial system. 7. **Conclusion: China's Future**: Focuses on environmental issues and the sustainability of growth. Naughton's interpretations are generally well-received, though some points differ from other scholars' views. The book is praised for its balanced and nuanced approach, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the Chinese economy.