Norberg examines the arguments put forward by the anti-globalization movement. According to Norberg, "The spread of capitalism in recent decades has reduced poverty rates and created opportunities for people around the world. Living standards and life expectancy have rapidly increased in most places. Global hunger, infant mortality, and inequality have diminished. This is because of economic and technological development, which are the result of free market policies. Poor countries that have liberalized their economies have shown striking results, while poor countries stuck in misery."

"We want a better world, not worse," he argues. Since 2008, the book has been translated into dozens of languages including English, German, Dutch, Turkish, Estonian, French, Finnish, Spanish, Chinese, Polish and Czech. Additional translations into Arabic, Russian and Mongolian are available. The book also formed the basis for Johan Norberg's 2003 documentary on Channel 4.

"This is a young man's book, addressed to idealistic youth," - Rosemary Righter, The Times London