Finance & economics | Economics focus

Power to the pawns

For excellence in public services, should societies rely on altruism or self-interest?

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This article appeared in the Finance & economics section of the print edition under the headline “Power to the pawns”

Vlad the impaler

From the November 1st 2003 edition

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illustration of a stern-faced man in a suit with a green tie, set against a bright green background. A small building with a flag is depicted in the pocket of his suit

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Why finance is still dominated by bold individuals

Hong Kong’s property slump may be terminal

Demographics and geopolitics will make a recovery harder


A float is inflated in preparation for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

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Nobody is to blame. Everyone suffers

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Canada and Mexico look likely to suffer