Chinese Economic Performance in the Long Run

On May 28, 2008, the Global Economy and Development program at the Brookings Institution hosted a presentation by Angus Maddison on his findings in the second edition of Chinese Economic Performance in the Long Run. Maddison discussed his analysis of the six major transitions in Chinese history, beginning with the transformation under the Sung Dynasty and ending in his predictions for the future of China’s economy. This conversation is particularly pertinent in light of China’s rapidly changing role in the world economy.

Mr. Maddison has a long history with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), having served as Head of the OEEC Economics Division from 1935 to 1962 when the organisation became the OECD. He most recently served as Head of the Central Analysis Division, a post he retained from 1971-1978. His OECD published book, Chinese Economic Performance in the Long Run, is just one of 25 books he has authored or co-authored. He has also contributed a great number of articles to academic and financial journals.

Today, Mr. Maddison’s major research interest is the assessment of the forces affecting the economic growth performance of nations, with particular emphasis on quantitative analysis in historical and comparative perspectives.