> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://laurence-wilse-samson.gitbook.io/textbooks/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://laurence-wilse-samson.gitbook.io/textbooks/the-south-african-economy/readme.md).

# README

**An Academic Textbook**

*By Laurence Wilse-Samson* *Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, New York University*

***

## About This Book

This textbook provides a comprehensive analysis of South Africa's economic structure, performance, and policy challenges in the democratic era. Covering the period from 1994 through 2025, it examines macroeconomic policy, state capacity and infrastructure, the productive sectors (mining, manufacturing, agriculture, services), labour markets, human capital, and the distribution of economic outcomes.

## Structure

The book is organised in three parts:

**Part I: Foundations** (Chapters 1-2)

* Political economy context
* Macroeconomic framework

**Part II: Sectors** (Chapters 3-7)

* State capability and infrastructure
* Agriculture, land, and food security
* Mining and the Minerals-Energy Complex
* Manufacturing, trade, and industrial policy
* Services, finance, and the digital economy

**Part III: People** (Chapters 8-10)

* The labour market crisis
* Human capital: education and health
* Inequality, poverty, and social protection

## Features

* Nearly 50 data visualisations
* Comparative policy boxes
* Discussion questions for each chapter
* Comprehensive bibliography

## Audience

This textbook is designed for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in economics, public policy, development studies, and African studies. It is also useful for policy practitioners, analysts, and informed citizens.

## AI Disclosure

This textbook was developed with assistance from Claude (Anthropic). See the Preface for full disclosure of AI use in drafting, data visualisation, and editorial review.

***

*January 2026*