The Experience of Middle Australia
The Dark Side of Economic Reform

Examines middle Australia and how it is coping with the changes of economic reform.

Michael Pusey (Author)

9780521651219, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 27 March 2003

264 pages, 20 b/w illus.
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.9 cm, 0.56 kg

'Michael Pusey's new book on The Experience of Middle Australia: The Dark Side of Economic Reform makes extensive use of social science methods … to explore the consequences of the changes brought about by the 'economic rationalisers' … This is a hugely worthwhile book.' Francis G. Castle, University of Edinburgh

This book puts middle Australia under the microscope, examining how quality of life is faring in the face of change and uncertainty. 400 Australians from around the country shared their experiences of work, family, and community for this book, creating a striking picture of Australian society into a new millennium. This lived experience is set against hard data so that we can truly understand the impact - good and bad - of economic restructuring on the broad Australian middle class. Meticulously researched, it mounts a moral and intellectual counter-argument to economic reform. A sequel to the best-selling Economic Rationalism in Canberra, Michael Pusey's book will be equally important.

Introduction: economic reform
1. Incomes and meanings
2. Jobs work and fairness … In the wake of Labour market reform
3. Working families: struggling with the costs of reform
4. Civil societies and communities
5. Politics, power and institutions
6. Conclusion.

Subject Areas: Economics, finance, business & management [K], Political science & theory [JPA], Sociology & anthropology [JH]