First of a new series of commentary on economic conditions and policy in the Uk and beyond from John Weeks.John Weeks is a professor emeritus of the University of London's School of Oriental and African Studies and author of The Economics of the 1%: How Mainstream Economics Serves the Rich, Obscures Reality and Distorts Policy. His recent policy work includes a supplemental unemployment program for the European Union and advising the central banks of Argentina and Zambia. More info on John at http://jweeks.org/