The Tasks Ahead in Comparative Economic Studies: What Should We Be Comparing

Abstract

The field of comparative economic studies has been adapting to the changing circumstances of recent decades, but prospects for the future of the subject merit discussion. The relationship between economic analysis of transition and comparative studies is reviewed. The development of comparative economic analyses of developing and established capitalist economies in "adjoining fields" of study is noted. Two major research issues for the future are put forward. A brief, pilot study of institutional influences on national business climate is described.