This important, original book focuses on the transformation of economic systems in Central Europe. It provides a comprehensive overview of different theoretical approaches to transformation - neoclassical, post Keynesian and Austrian. In the light of this theoretical discussion, it reconsiders the transformation policies applied in the Czech and Slovak Republics, Hungary and Poland.Dr Hoen challenges the dichotomous 'shock-versus-gradualism' dispute, which he believes blurs the key elements of the transformation from a centrally planned to a market economy. He also maintains that the labels generally attached to the transformation strategies in Central Europe are inappropriate and misleading. Hungary's transformation to a market economy, for example, is to be qualified as a 'hidden shock' rather than as an example of 'gradualism'.

This up-to-date new book, which theoretically explains the diverging paths of transformation in Central Europe will be of interest to researchers, students, policymakers and all those concerned with European integration and international relations.