Public Finance: A Normative Theory

Public Finance: A Normative Theory, Fourth Edition is a comprehensive textbook on the normative theory of government policy, covering welfare aspects, empirical work, environmental issues, social insurance, behavioral economics, and international tax issues. It is organized logically and accessible to students and PhDs in math.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 568 pages
Publication date: 25 April 2022
Publisher: Elsevier Science Publishing Co Inc

The fourth edition of Public Finance: A Normative Theory is a comprehensive and authoritative text on the normative theory of government policy. This invaluable resource offers a thorough exploration of the welfare aspects of public economics, providing extensive coverage of European examples. The book presents a detailed and comprehensive examination of theoretical literature, empirical research, environmental concerns, social insurance, behavioral economics, and international tax issues. Organized in a logical and engaging manner, it caters to scholars with advanced mathematical backgrounds while also being accessible to students with less rigorous mathematical training.

The book begins by introducing the fundamental principles of public finance and policy analysis. It then delves into the various welfare dimensions, including economic efficiency, equity, and social welfare. The authors provide a detailed account of the theoretical frameworks and empirical studies related to these topics, drawing from a wide range of sources and perspectives.

One of the key strengths of Public Finance: A Normative Theory is its comprehensive coverage of environmental issues. The book recognizes the importance of environmental sustainability and addresses the challenges posed by climate change, pollution, and resource depletion. It offers practical solutions and policy recommendations to promote environmental protection and sustainable development.

Social insurance is another area of focus in the book. The authors discuss the role of social insurance programs in providing protection against economic risks and social welfare. They explore the design and implementation of social insurance schemes, including healthcare, unemployment insurance, and pension systems. The book emphasizes the importance of social insurance in promoting social mobility and reducing poverty.

Behavioral economics is also incorporated into the discussion, providing insights into the factors that influence individual and collective decision-making. The book explores the role of psychology, cognitive biases, and incentives in shaping public policy and economic behavior. It offers practical applications of behavioral economics in areas such as public health, education, and environmental regulation.

International tax issues are also covered in depth, with a focus on the principles and practices of taxation in different countries and regions. The authors discuss the theoretical and practical aspects of international tax cooperation, tax evasion, and tax avoidance. They provide insights into the role of international tax policies in promoting economic growth, reducing inequality, and addressing global challenges such as poverty and climate change.

Throughout the book, the authors employ a rigorous and analytical approach, presenting complex concepts in a clear and concise manner. They use a wide range of examples and case studies to illustrate their arguments and make the material more accessible to students and practitioners. The book also includes a comprehensive bibliography and an index, making it an invaluable resource for further research and study.

In conclusion, Public Finance: A Normative Theory, Fourth Edition is a seminal text on the normative theory of government policy. It offers a comprehensive and up-to-date exploration of the welfare aspects of public economics, providing a rich source of knowledge and insights for scholars, policymakers, and students alike. The book's logical organization, engaging writing style, and rigorous scholarship make it an essential resource for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of public finance and policy analysis.

Weight: 1500g
Dimension: 276 x 216 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780128228647
Edition number: 4 ed