“Chilean Economic Model” examines how Chile, historically dependent on copper exports, became a Latin American leader in free-market reforms and relative stability. This book moves beyond simplistic narratives to explore the complex interplay of policy, global economics, and historical context that shaped Chile's unique economic trajectory. Critically, it highlights that while Chile experienced GDP growth and poverty reduction, the uncritical implementation of free-market principles led to income inequality and social unrest.
The book provides a historical overview, tracing Chile's copper dependence and the shift to neoliberal policies under Pinochet. It then scrutinizes the implementation of free-market reforms like privatization and deregulation, analyzing their macroeconomic effects and social consequences. Finally, it compares Chile's economic performance with other Latin American economies, assessing the political and social factors contributing to its stability. This approach provides a comprehensive understanding of Chile's economic development, revealing both its successes and significant social costs.