As an introduction to the theory and practice of economics, Professor Pollard's book wears an unconventional garb. By no means a simple primer, the work still manages to domesticate complicated economic principles by means of anecdote, graphic allusions, and a far-ranging intelligence. The author manages a most effective apologia for capitalism as an economic form that most efficiently twins prosperity with freedom. And this-not only for countries with developed economies. The book, however, worries over the problems posed by population growth and such economic irrationalities as arms races and wars. Professor Pollard surveys the trends of capitalism and among other conclusions notes that the development of automation will accelerate the long-term movement from farm to executive suite, with the professions accounting for a dominant percentage of the work force. He feels that the imperfect-competition aspects of capitalism will be self- adjusted by such countervailing forces as government regulation. Whatever stylistic rigors that are encountered in this thoroughly adult book tend to be more than compensated for in the increased understanding the reader will have of the intricacies of America's favorite way of doing business, with its resulting dangers and prospects.