Book Description

Indiana is at an economic crossroads. Its history and culture do not embrace change, yet its economy is heavily tied to manufacturing and exportsAE"both of which are highly sensitive to the ever-changing global economy. The Hoosier state is aging and experiencing a brain drain from its universities. Its infrastructure needs repair and updating. And its public schools are average at a time when excellence is demanded. Indiana is at a point in its history when it must make decisions about the directions it will take in the future. Author Mark Akers examines the culture of Hoosiers and what makes them happy, the global economic forces that the state is facing, and describes those actions that state and local governments must implement to compete for economic growthAE"world-class infrastructure, the best education system anywhere, highly attractive cities and towns, meaningful incentives, and a stable, predictable, and helpful government. But even if these basic needs are addressed, can Indiana eventually prosper and develop a broad-based, innovative economy? Indiana (In)Decision describes IndianaAEs dilemma of indecisiveness at a time requiring rapid decision-making about its economic future. The book is meant for everyone, not just economists or academics.