Abstract   What are the responsibilities and limitations of government? By drawing on insights from normative public finance, public choice, and new political economy, Arye L. Hillman's textbook on public finance provides an engaging, clear, and well-organised introduction to the subject and defines a framework within which answers to this question can be given. The book will not only be of value to undergraduate teaching in public finance, but will also appeal to graduate students, academics and policymakers who want a concise and up-to-date overview of the main ideas and developments in the area.