The Third Way and its Critics (ePub)

The idea of finding a 'third way' in politics has become a focus of
discussion across the world. Political leaders, in the US, Europe,
Asia and Latin America claim to be following its principles. Yet
the notion has also attracted much criticism. Some say it is an
empty concept without any real content. Critics from the more
traditional left argue that it is a betrayal of left-wing ideals.

Anthony Giddens's The Third Way (Polity Press, 1998) is
regarded by many as the key text of third way politics. Translated
into twenty-five languages, it has shaped the development of the
third way. In this new book Giddens responds to the critics, and
further develops the ideas set out in his earlier volume. Far from
being unable to deal with inequalities of wealth and power, he
shows, third way politics offers the only feasible approach to
these issues. The work is indispensable for anyone who wants to
understand the most important political debate going on today.

Anthony Giddens is the Director of the London School of Economics
and Political Science. He is the author or editor of over thirty
books. His previous works, especially Beyond Left and Right
(Polity Press, 1994) have influenced debates about the future of
social democracy in many countries across the world. Frequently
referred to in the UK as Tony Blair's guru, Giddens has made a
strong impact on the evolution of New Labour.