Jumpstart

Meer over het boek

The unification of Germany represents a significant transition in economic history, offering valuable insights for post-socialist economies. Two prominent German economists synthesize extensive literature to provide a structured, analytical account of the reunification process and its policy alternatives. Their authoritative yet accessible narrative will engage both nonspecialists and specialists in transition economics. Contrary to concerns about a resurgence of nationalism, the authors highlight that reunification has largely been met with apathy. However, the ongoing economic turmoil poses risks to social stability, emphasizing the importance of addressing redistribution issues. They propose a "social pact" between labor and management to resolve distribution conflicts and facilitate the transformation of the former East German communist economy into a market economy. This pact focuses on compensation and the equitable distribution of real wealth, rather than merely on factor prices. Gerlinde Sinn has taught at Dortmund and Mannheim universities, while Hans-Werner Sinn directs the Center for Economic Studies at the University of Munich.