For settling lunch-table arguments and bets, it is hard to beat The Economist Pocket World in Figures. --The Wall Street JournalA perennial bestseller, The Economist Pocket World in Figures provides important statistical information on nations around the world. Now revised and expanded, the 1999 Edition offers over 200 rankings by topic that include 171 countries, and presents up-to-date profiles of more than 60 major global economies. Covering everything from population and life expectancy to agriculture and tourism, this authoritative reference tells you at a glance: Which countries have the highest purchasing power Who is the most--and least--trade dependent What city has the highest quality of life Where inflation is the lowest--and highest Who spends the most on health and education Which are the largest businesses and banks Who recycles the most Where the most automobile accidents occur Who owns the most televisions and home computers And much, much more . . .Accurate and informative, The Economist Pocket World in Figures is an indispensable resource for those who need key facts and figures about the world today.THE ECONOMIST, launched in 1843, is the most authoritative and influential international news and business magazine, and is widely read by top decision makers across the world.