Falling Behind and Falling Apart: The Bottom Billion by Paul Collier - Book Report/Review Example

These countries, which are mainly small and poor, are from Africa and Central Asia. Although some of these countries have succeeded in escaping these traps, they have found it difficult to catch up with the developing world due to the hostile nature of the global market to new entrants. The author also illustrates the importance of growth in development. In his analysis, the author notes that those countries that are not part of the bottom billion have experienced rapid growth in per capita income compared to the bottom billion countries.

For instance, the middle four billion countries per capita income grew by 4% per year compared to a mere 0.4% for the bottom billion countries. The author argues that in order to eliminate poverty, the bottom billion countries need to start growing. According to the author, although the problem facing these countries is huge, it is fixable. This can be achieved through the formulation of policies that will encourage these countries to move toward change. This will require joint efforts from all governments worldwide.

However, as the author rightfully notes, change has to come from these bottom billion countries.