Editorial ReviewsReview"In this thoughtful and erudite book, Martinez forces us to re-examine the myth of the 'natural' free market order. Using very intelligently a wide range of fascinating historical and contemporary examples, he takes us through many important economic, political, and philosophical reflections about the true nature of the market system and its important but limited role in the construction of a civilized society." --Ha-Joon Chang, University of Cambridge, author of Kicking Away the Ladder and Bad Samaritans"A fast-moving primer bursting with relevant examples, The Myth of the Free Market is---to put it mildly---eye-opening. Mark Martinez's insight could not have arrived at a more important time. Compelling from cover to cover." --Bill Harnsberger, Featured Writer, Daily KosReview"Ronald Reagan told us that "government is not the solution to our problem, government is the problem". This statement helped convince an entire generation that government does little more than hinder economic growth and the well-being of society. Professor Martinez - via lucid writing and a wealth of historical evidence - clearly demonstrates that relying on private market players alone to protect the integrity of markets will not produce the outcomes society desires. Recent events confirm this hypothesis. Read this book and see why Ronald Reagan was wrong and how government not only organizes markets but can indeed be a solution to our problems."See all Editorial ReviewsProduct Details    * Paperback: 317 pages    * Publisher: Kumarian Press (March 2009)    * Language: English    * ISBN-10: 1565492676    * ISBN-13: 978-1565492677    * Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.7 inches    * Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)    * Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)      2 Reviews      5 star:                        (2)      4 star:                    (0)      3 star:                    (0)      2 star:                    (0)      1 star:                    (0)      › See all 2 customer reviews...    * Amazon.com Sales Rank: #240,558 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)       Would you like to update product info or give feedback on images?