"This deeply-researched and brilliantly-argued book is an honest, clear-minded assessment of the fiscal future that awaits advanced countries in response to changes in health care, income support, infrastructure deficits and other powerful drivers of public spending. Robinson's mastery of program details and socioeconomic trends makes this study essential reading for national leaders and public finance specialists." Allen Schick, Senior Fellow, Brookings Institution and Professor Emeritus, School of Public Policy, University of Maryland

"This book represents a path-breaking contribution to our understanding of the future of public finances in advanced economies. It challenges traditional dogmas on drivers of public spending and instead suggests that irrespective of political leaning of governments, advancements in health care technology, delayed actions on climate change and long-term care will drive public through the roof in coming decades in advanced countries. This book is a wake-up call for policy makers to take action now on emerging challenges or facets wrath of electorate in justifying higher taxes in future. It is a must-read book for policy makers, practitioners, scholars and students." Anwar Shah, Senior Fellow, Brookings Institution; former Director, Governance Program, World Bank; and Director, Center for Public Economics, SWUFE, Chengdu, China