A Very Short, Fairly Interesting and Reasonably Cheap Book about International Business

`While it is truly "very short" and thus may not suffice to serve as single textbook for such courses, it sports an attractive price tag and certainly features an excellent reference list with rich material for further research. In one sense, the authors have proven the marketing team of Sage Publications wrong, it is not only 'fairly interesting', it is a compelling and outstanding book' - Critical Perspectives on International Business

"This important, clearly written book by two British academics will be of value to anyone interested in international business. It covers the historical origins of international business including the classical theories of international trade as well as topics not discussed in mainstream textbooks, such as the exploitation of natural resources resulting from European colonialism. This overview of international business does not emphasize only the favorable aspects of international business activities and how multinational corporations can be successful. The authors also address aspects of international business activities that harm society. These topics include working conditions in sweatshops of both less developed and developed countries; pollution caused by toxic waste disposal practices; the making of unsafe products; tax avoidance; and increasing economic inequality both between and within countries. The authors question the idea that the main purpose of international businesses should be to maximize profits for their stockholders, using such exploitive practices as moving production offshore to reduce labor costs in order to achieve competitive advantage. They believe that international businesses should be concerned with their social responsibility to workers, consumers, and society. Excellent references. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All business collections."