Ireland has been rated the number one place to live because it successfully combines the most desirable elements of a modern society-the world's fourth highest GDP per person and low unemployment-with the preservation of certain cozy elements of the old, such as stable family and community life.
Michael J. O'Sullivan presents the globalization of Ireland in a context of international trends in economics, international relations, and politics. His multi-disciplinary approach uncovers many of the weaknesses that lie behind the complacent and clichéd view of the Celtic Tiger. In examining Ireland's great leap forward from a developing to a postindustrial economy, O'Sullivan offers valuable lessons to other countries.