Saturday, January 16, 2010

Greenspan: Listen to what I'm saying!


Alan Greenspan, former Chairman of the Federal Reserve in the United States, has written about his life experiences relating to global markets and their effects on the world in his new book, "The Age of Turbulence" (No. 1 New York Times Bestseller). He describes different situations throughout history concerning global markets on the rise and fall; and how they effect the way different governments react. He attempts to persuade readers (note that his intended audience is adults ageing 30+) that global markets are far from perfect. He explains that there will always be recessions, (such as the one we just suffered through in 2008-09) no matter what is done to try and prevent them. Greenspan says at one point, "markets go up, and markets go down, but they always grow." His tone is very relaxing; almost comforting in a sense. He clearly wishes to clarify in peoples minds that our economy is perfectly healthy, and that there is no need for panic. Interestingly enough, however, he also quietly says that there is room for improvements when it comes to the way our economy works, but that someone else (meaning not himself) will have to be the person with the guts to attempt it. All-in-all, this is a fabulous read; its easy to understand, interesting, and cleverly written. Two thumbs up to Alan Greenspan for one of the best pieces written in the past decade!

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