The new century: Quest for the high road - Clem Sunter (First edition)

Following the success of The World and South Africa in the 1990s, Clem Sunter takes a fresh look at the "rules of the game" and scenarios which may influence our lives as we enter the New Century.

He identifies four global rules over the next 20 years:

• The need for a constructive relationship between the "rich old millions" and the "poor young billions".
• The continuing transformation of society and business by new technologies.
• The favourable shift in values away from unworkable ideologies to a balance between economic development, environmental health and quality of life.
• The demanding formulas for a "winning nation" and a "winning company".

With these rules, two scenarios are possible. The world may take the "High Road" where the Triad of North America, Europe and Japan plays a positive role in uplifting most developing countries to the status of "winning nations". Or the world can descend the "Low Road" where the Triad retires into a gilded cage while billions of poverty-stricken people struggle to survive outside the cage.

South Africa mirrors the world in the challenges it faces. Will we use our unique strengths - good infrastructure, mineral resources, tourist potential and entrepreneurial flair - to take the "High Road" and become the first "African dragon?" Or will we destroy our chances of becoming a "winning nation" either quickly through civil war or slowly because of bad government policies in a New South Africa?

In formulating these options, Clem Sunter offers some pointers to long-term success:

• Empowering people with education and training. 
• Placing restraints on government expenditure.
• Reaching agreement as soon as possible on a multiparty democracy backed up by a free press. 
• Targeting an export-oriented economy.
• Accepting the principle that individual initiative and accountability are the driving forces behind progress.

If you believe it is imperative to know how the future will affect your country, your business, your community, your family or you personally, this book is essential reading.