COVID-19 and the Economic Future: A Review of Books on the Consequences of the Pandemic

The Corona pandemic has led to the deepest economic slump since World War II. Economic crises in the past have often led to a change of direction in the development of capitalism. What are the consequences of the Corona crisis? How do experts and policy advisors articulate the desirable steps for economic recovery? This review essay takes stock of some 20 books published since 2020 on the topic of corona and the economy, in economics, critical social studies, political economy, and related disciplines. Even if many books avoid clear statements on the further development of our economic system, a common leitmotif can be identified. It is very clear that a less liberal economic system is expected in the near future. In any case, most of the analyses see the state as being significantly strengthened, as it will again intervene more strongly in the economy in the future, not only for social and economic stabilization after the pandemic but also in combating climate change. Whether this change will also translate into more social security and less inequality, however, remains unclear.