Today's economic environment is in constant flux, as is the participation of governments in it. Local, state, national, and global governmental agencies have taken on new responsibilities--with both positive and negative economic consequences. This book looks at the changing role of American government in the economy, from determining the measurements of economic health, to being mindful of corporate sustainability, to legislating business practices and consumer affairs.

This comprehensive collection of essays draws from the contributions of 25 economic scholars along with seasoned...