Customer Reviews

Cost-Benefit Analysis for Public Sector Decision Makers

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The strength of this book is that it covers both theory and methods. Other books (Campbell and Brown, 2003; Mishan and Quah, 2007; Nas, 1996) cover theory, but don't really cover empirical methods. The most comprehensive book that does cover both theory and methods is Boardman et al. (2005), however it borders on encyclopedic at times, and is tedious for students (and sometimes for the instructor). Therefore, this book is in many ways the most appropriate for an undergraduate cost-benefit analysis course, in that it gives a comprehensive treatment of the subject that is digestible.

The weakness of this book is that it doesn't provide enough real world examples of CBA. This is not an insurmountable problem, as one can consult Boardman et al., or the instructor can provide supplemental readings. However the main problem I have with the book is the price. In some ways, the book isn't much more than refined lecture notes, and there is absolutely nothing fancy about the book--the pages are black and white, and the typesetting is somewhat generic.

However, as there isn't really anything else on the market that is both comprehensive and digestible to undergraduates, it may just be worth it.

very good coverage of cost-benefit and cost-effectiveness analysis. step-by-step process and just a wealth of information. good buy.