How Much Is Enough?

In 1930 the great economist Keynes predicted that, over the next century, income would rise steadily, people's basic needs would be met and no one would have to work more than fifteen hours a week. Why was he wrong?

Robert and Edward Skidelsky argue that wealth is not - or should not be - an end in itself, but a means to 'the good life'. Tracing the concept from Aristotle to the present, they show how far modern life has strayed from that ideal. They reject the idea that there is any single measure of human progress, whether GDP or 'happiness', and instead describe the seven elements which, they argue, make up the good life, and the policies that could realize them.

''How much is enough?' is a good question. Anyone who sets store by capitalism and markets will find [this] book uncomfortable reading. It should be read all the same.' Economist

'A truly innovative and radical perspective on reshaping the economy . . . thought-stirring and extremely refreshing' John Gray, Guardian, Books of the Year

'A welcome call to reinvigorate society's ethical aspect and bring about the good life for everyone.' New Yorker

'In their thoughtful book, the Skidelskys move seamlessly from the abstract to the concrete; from philosophy to public policy. They note that Keynes's futuristic essay was ignored as the world sank into the Great Depression. Will we again ignore this call to imagine a better future?' Jon Cruddas MP, Independent