The Economics of Belonging

The Economics of Belonging examines the economic roots of political polarization and social disintegration in Western democracies. Sandbu traces how globalization, technological change, and policy choices have contributed to economic inequality and social divisions. The book analyzes specific economic policies and their effects on communities, jobs, and social cohesion from the post-war period through today. Through data and case studies, it explores why some regions and populations have been left behind while others have prospered in the modern economy. Sandbu presents potential solutions and policy frameworks to create what he terms an "economics of belonging" - approaches that could help rebuild shared prosperity and social trust. The analysis spans fiscal policy, education, labor markets, and industrial strategy. This work connects economic analysis with broader questions about democracy, social bonds, and collective identity in market economies. At its core, it grapples with how economic systems can either strengthen or erode the social fabric that underpins democratic societies.

Readers value Sandbu's fresh perspective on economic inequality and his concrete policy proposals. Multiple reviews highlight his clear writing style and ability to explain complex economic concepts. Positive comments focus on: - Data-driven analysis of globalization's impacts - Solutions beyond the typical left/right divide - Clear connections between economic alienation and populism Common criticisms: - Too Euro/US-centric, lacks global perspective - Some solutions seem politically unfeasible - Insufficient attention to racial inequality - Occasional academic density in policy sections One reader noted: "Sandbu offers pragmatic centrist solutions without the usual neoliberal handwaving." Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (89 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (42 ratings) Financial Times readers poll: 4/5 Several economics professors and policy professionals cited it in course syllabi and recommended reading lists, though some noted it works better for readers with basic economics knowledge.

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🔸 Author Martin Sandbu writes extensively about economics for the Financial Times, where he serves as European Economics Commentator and pens the Free Lunch newsletter. 🔹 The book challenges the common narrative that globalization inevitably leads to inequality, arguing instead that domestic policy choices play a much larger role. 🔸 Published in 2020, the book's themes became particularly relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic, which exposed and intensified many of the economic divisions it discusses. 🔹 Sandbu's concept of "economics of belonging" draws inspiration from the Nordic economic model, which combines free market dynamics with strong social safety nets. 🔸 The book builds on ideas from Sandbu's previous work "Europe's Orphan" (2015), which defended the Euro currency against critics who blamed it for Europe's economic problems.