The Third Way and Its Critics

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by Anthony Giddens

Polity Press

Due/Published May 2000, 144 pages, paper

ISBN 0745624502

The idea of finding a 'third way' in politics has become a focus of discussion across the world. Political leaders in the US, Europe, Asia and Latin America claim to be following its principles, though the notion has also attracted much criticism. Some say it is an empty concept without any real content. Critics from the more traditional left argue that it is a betrayal of left-wing ideals.

Anthony Giddens's The Third Way is regarded by many as the key text of third way politics. In this new book Giddens responds to the critics, and further develops the ideas set out in his earlier volume. Far from being unable to deal with inequalities of wealth and power, he shows, third way politics offers the only feasible approach to these issues.

Contents:

Preface.
1. The Third Way and its Critics.
2. Social Democracy and the Third Way.
3. Government, the State and Economic Strategy.
4. The Question of Inequality.
5. Taking Globalisation Seriously.