The 'third way' is a term often used by politicians and others to indicate a set of new policies adopted by former social democratic parties throughout the world. This book is an attempt to dissect the ideas and economic theory behind the rhetoric of the 'third way' through a critical evaluation of the experiences of 'third way' administrations in a diverse range of countries.The editors suggest seven elements which can help define the theoretical economic foundations of 'third way' policies. They consider whether there is a consistent economic approach underlying the 'third way', and show that it is much influenced by New Keynesian economics. The contributors to the book explore the policy experiences from ten different countries, plus the European Union as a whole. Each contribution provides an examination of the application and implementation of 'third way' policies in a different country. These contributions indicate the similarities of the policies of the 'third way', though important differences in experience also emerge.

Providing an acute assessment and comprehensive interpretation of the 'third way', whilst neither endorsing nor dismissing its validity, this book should be widely read by policymakers, political scientists, and those with an interest in economic policy and economic analysis.