This book provides a new paradigm of economics that is called Qualitative Economics. The authors take an approach to economics that is entirely different from the established neo-classical economics paradigm. Arguing that the basis of neo-classical economic theory with its focus on perfect information in a balanced equilibrium system of supply and demand is fundamentally flawed, the authors propose an inclusive philosophical and scientific perspective to explain economic structures and activities and how best to understand the dynamics of economics. Furthermore, the authors argue that a qualitative approach allows for greater understanding of not only the actors, actions and situations in economics, but also defines the context in which the more traditional quantitative and statistical methods are applied. The book includes case studies to further illustrate the applications of qualitative economics. Challenging orthodox paradigms and schools of economic thought, the book proposes a new way of looking at economics, and as such will be of use to researchers and students of economics, business, social sciences and the sciences as well as think tanks and advocacy groups interested in heterodox economics.

Clark and Fast invented and created Qualitative Economics because people need to know what they are doing through interactions in their daily life. Economics is not just about statistics, data and numbers, but more about the meaning of this information. We provide everything from the definition of Qualitative Economics (QE) to the use of it in our daily lives, which includes everything we do daily from families, relatives and friends to work, vacations and hobbies.

Against a background of increasing inequality and a rising tide of nationalism and populism, this book raises concerns that curriculum is being shaped by powerful non-academic, non-accountable forces and that populism – and its manifestations – represent a grave challenge to learning. It explores the extent to which curriculum and learning methods in higher education should respond to this challenge. Using problem based learning as a case study it draws on crossdisciplinary studies to examine how regional, national and organizational perspectives emphasize different aspects of PBL. It questions whether PBL provides an effective response to external influences and a ‘populist’ highereducation agenda. In conclusion the book poses an uncomfortable question whether graduates reflect the external forces shaping curriculum and hence may be as vulnerable to populist rhetoric as non-graduates precisely because the curriculum and learning methods do not engage with the challenges. This book will appeal to scholars of problem based learning, as well as populism and therole of higher education in society.

Sustainable Mega City Communities scrutinizes the challenges encountered when designing, planning and constructing sustainable megacities. Chapters explain the role of national and local governments for the strategic planning, development, implementation, monitoring and enforcement of standards of water, air, food and products used by the community. Other chapters cover Water Delivery Systems, Sanitation and Waste Disposal Systems, Power Systems, and Public Health Systems, new green technologies, practices, and standards predicated by the need for sustainable office building and housing. - Provides an in-depth look at critical infrastructural systems, charting problems and providing possible solutions - Addresses new green technologies, practices and standards predicated by the need for sustainable office building and housing - Explains the role of national and local governments for strategic planning, development, implementation, monitoring and enforcement

In the last fifty years, the Earth has experienced rapid changes in climate, increasingly severe droughts, rising seawater levels, seawater acidification, increased depletion of groundwater reserves, and global rise of temperature. Green technologies for recycling waste, particularly electronic waste, which is increasing at an alarming rate, may be a potential solution to environmental pollution. Divided into three sections, this book presents comprehensive information on green technologies. Section 1 presents innovations in green electronic technologies, Section 2 discusses recycling and waste management, and Section 3 discusses innovation and economics in global green technologies.

Climate Preservation in Urban Communities Case Studies delivers a firsthand, applied perspective on the challenges and solutions of creating urban communities that are adaptable and resilient to climate change. The book presents valuable insights into the real-life challenges and solutions of designing, planning and constructing urban sustainable communities, providing real world examples of innovative technologies that contribute to the creation of sustainable, healthy and livable cities. Examples of successes, failures and solutions are presented based on a cross disciplinary approach for infrastructural systems, including discussions of drinking water, wastewater, power systems, broadband, Wi-Fi, transportation and green buildings technologies. - Presents a cross-disciplinary approach for anticipating, mitigating and designing effective infrastructure solutions - Includes practical and project-proven best practices in applying climate preservation tools to maintain healthy cities - Covers green practices, from architecture, to construction, also including international codes, methods and legal frameworks