Critique de CHOICE

Koistinen (William Paterson Univ.) provides a thorough, readable discussion of 20th-century deindustrialization, focusing on Massachusetts (and New England). He provides a useful typology of responses to deindustrialization, suggesting that the typical sequence begins with "retrenchment" (which this reviewer would complement with hoping that the declining industries recover); progresses to "federal assistance"; and culminates in local (statewide, regional) "economic development" initiatives. He also provides a well-developed discussion of this process in New England, more especially in Massachusetts. While it is understandable that the author would restrict his focus, it remains unclear whether generalizations from the New England experience are valid. Koistinen does not engage with the voluminous analytical literature on local economic development initiatives (both those originating in Washington and purely local efforts), so readers are left uninformed about whether these initiatives have had any significant impact on deindustrializing communities. Finally, while it is clear that deindustrialization has had significant (short-term) negative effects, it is not clear whether, for example, New England would be a more prosperous region if its economy were still dominated by textile manufacturing. This reviewer's judgment is that the changes that occurred, difficult as they were, ultimately have led to a more, not less, prosperous region. Summing Up: Recommended. All levels of undergraduate students; general readers; professionals. D. A. Coffin emeritus, Indiana University Northwest