"This book addresses one of the enduring questions of democratic government: why do governments choose some public policies but not others? Political executives focus on a range of policy issues, such as the economy, social policy, and foreign policy, but they shift their priorities over time....

"A fascinating behind-the-scenes examination of how agreement on key financial reporting issues is reached, this book provides insights into a vital process which is normally inaccessible to all but its participants. With unprecedented access to key participants, the authors draw on results of...