This book examines the budgetary priorities of the United States government in 1976, analyzing the allocation of resources across various sectors and proposing alternative frameworks for national spending. Authored by leading economists Barry M. Blechman, Edward M. Gramlich, and Robert W. Hartman, the work draws upon extensive data and analysis of the federal budget. It presents a detailed argument regarding the effectiveness and equity of existing spending patterns, offering insights into the complex interplay of political, social, and economic factors that shape national fiscal policy. The authors aim to provide a critical assessment of the 1976 budget and its implications for future policy decisions.

This book is regarded as a significant academic contribution to the study of public budgeting and fiscal policy, offering a detailed and critical examination of a specific year's federal spending. The authors' expertise in economics and public administration lends authority to their analysis, which is likely to be of interest to policymakers, economists, and students of government. The inclusion of bibliographical references suggests a rigorous, research-based approach, providing a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of national budget setting.