"The editors have merged work from two disciplines, economics and political science; in a summary conclusion, a sociologist suggests possible extensions in the comparison of socialist systems for the future. . . . contributes generously to the field."—Slavic Review

This undergraduate/graduate course compares the economic systems of regions on the spectrum from free market to communism.

This text explores the major topics in comparative economic systems. Part I discusses property rights and the role of the state in the context of historical evaluation; Part II examines the varieties of socialist systems, with special attention to the Hungarian, Yugoslav, and Chinese cases; and Part III presents the capitalist alternatives using Japan, Sweden, and West Germany as models.

Dealing with topics and perspectives generally neglected by American sociologists, Hollander focuses on the nature of socialism and the reasons for Marxism's appeal among Western intellectuals. In his new introduction to updated essays, never before published in book form, he also addresses issues of enduring interest in both socialist and pluralistic societies. These include relationships between the private and the public, techniques of social and political control, the timeless tension between professed value and observed behavior, and the way systems struggle for a sense of purpose in the contemporary world.

Comparison of economic planning and systems of economic administration in socialist countries and the role of USSR therein - covers marx's economic theory and its application in the USSR collective economy, examines investments, prices, economic development strategies, different forms of management, agrarian reforms, trade agreements between CMEA countries, international relations, industrialization, etc. References and statistical tables.

The second edition of an innovative undergraduate textbook in Comparative Economic Systems that goes beyond the traditional dichotomies.