How much of a role should the government play in the national economy?

This special report in the Economist magazine addresses state capitalism, with a focus on China, Russia, and Brazil.

Economist (1-21-2012) "The Visible Hand"



http://youtu.be/4Fn33n4Csi0

Class:

List and discuss three pros and cons of state capitalism, a system in which the government plays a very large and direct role in the economy. State capitalism is on the rise in many countries, and some countries, such as China, claim it explains their recent success.

Is this a flash in the pan? What hazards are lurking in the future for this approach?