Once again, popular author and seasoned economist Dr. David Hyman delivers a balanced presentation of public policy that equips readers with a solid understanding of economic theory and how it affects policy issues. Extremely student friendly, PUBLIC FINANCE, 9th edition thoroughly illustrates the role government plays in the economy and explains how and why the public sector makes decisions. The text also describes public goods--the many instances in which the public sector does not make efficient decisions and the government must step in to provide goods efficiently and equitably to all members of society. The book provides comprehensive coverage of tax issues (the supply of public funds), as well as includes such topics as health care, cost-benefit analysis, and other issues that involve government-spending decisions--issues that deal with the demand for public funds. Packed with timely, real-world examples, Public Finance provides an interesting read that sparks lively student discussion and debate with its coverage of such hot topics as national defense and homeland security, pollution rights, Social Security reform, federal tax reform, the War in Iraq, and much more. Turning the spotlight on numerous international governments, the text also gives students an excellent overview of the role of economics in the global marketplace. In addition, it includes numerous study tools and exercises to help students sharpen their economic acumen.