cover image Rendezvous with Reality: The American Economy After Reagan

Rendezvous with Reality: The American Economy After Reagan

Murray L. Weidenbaum. Basic Books, $19.95 (313pp) ISBN 978-0-465-06914-9

Weidenbaum, former chairman of President Reagan's Council of Economic Advisors, joins the chorus of economists who urgently warn that the twin deficitsbudget and tradeare leading the U.S. toward economic stagnation, if not disaster. Unlike many of his colleagues, however, he argues forcefully that less government, not more, is needed to solve America's economic problems. Weidenbaum starkly outlines the dangers posed by protectionism, over-regulation and so-called ``industrial policy,'' insisting that Congress must restrain itself from funding every politically expedient government program. Although his calls for more voter concern over the deficit seem a bit naive, he concludes that there is still time, if we take firm action, to repair the damage to our economy and prevent a reduction in our living standards. To that end, he outlines a national agenda on how to reduce the trade and budget deficits and how to implement tax, welfare and regulatory reform. A thor ough analysis of the problems confronting the U.S. economy. (September)