Lexington Books The American Nightmare: Politics and the Fragile World Trade Organization

As a participant in and negotiator of NAFTA and the World Trade Organization, Thomas A. Hockin provides a unique insider's look at the political challenges to free trade and U. S. trade policy. In this timely and important book, Hockin explores the fragile ecosystem of multinational trade alliances in the face of insurgent political protests from both the left and the right. The American Nightmare takes a close look at WTO obstacles such as the failure of member countries to follow dispute settlement arrangements; the conflict surrounding the membership of China; and, the mercurial administration of trade law in the U.S. Hockin makes a convincing case for the current incoherence of American trade policy, warning of a possible collapse of the world economy if the WTO's ability to settle disputes becomes further frustrated. With lucid analysis of the systemic problems involved in free trade and thoughtful possible solutions to them, The American Nightmare is a clarion call for policy makers and a thought provoking read for those of us on the sidelines. Review The American Nightmare is a timely contribution to contemporary policy debates and a very highly recommended addition to Economic Studies reading lists and collections.--Midwest Book Review Tom Hockin is uniquely qualified to write about international trade politics. The insight he shares with his readers flows from his strong academic background, extensive private sector experience, and the years he devoted to public service as an elected Member of Parliament and as Canada's Minister for International Trade. His multidisciplinary approach has produced a thoroughly readable and provocative book on one of today's most controversial topics--the impact of global trade on national sovereignty.--James McIlroy, president of McIlroy & McIlroy, Trade Counsel, Toronto, Canada The nexus of trade policy making today involves the holy trinity of government, business, and nongovernmental organizations. Hockin weaves together these three strands of politics and prejudice in a richly detailed narrative. . . . He provides unequalled insights into the dispute settlement procedures at the WTO, especially those dealing with environmentally related trade issues.--Alan M. Rugman, Leslie Waters Chair in International Business, Indiana University; author of The World Trade Organization in the New Global About the Author Thomas A. Hockin is President of the Investment Funds Institute of Canada. He is a former Trade Minister and Parliamentarian, and has taught at Harvard, York University, and the Ivey School of Business.