This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the application of the new theory of contestable markets to the problem of the transition to deregulation in regulated industries. It offers an extensive review of both the theory and practice of contestable markets, as well as guidelines for the practical application of the theory to regulated industries and antitrust, with special consideration given to the problems of the rail industry. As applied in this industry, the theory promised to help balance the conflicting goals of regulatory transition and to define standards for revenue...

William Tye draws on his large body of work in the area of railroad deregulation to address specific economic problems associated with deregulation. He elucidates principles that can be applied to any major industry entering the competitive marketplace--particularly telecommunications and other utilities, including gas and electric. Tye has updated and revised his previous articles and structured them into an integrated framework. Each section addresses a major issue and can be read on a stand-alone basis. By providing appropriate economic models and rules for successful transition, this...