ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the logic of treating time and space as complementary perspectives. It considers contrasting assumptions about learning from abroad. The scope of a particular comparison is determined by the problem at hand. The simplest method of evaluation is to compare conditions with aspirations. As long as a routine glance at monthly labour market figures indicates that achievement matches aspiration, then there is satisfaction. Dissatisfaction with youth unemployment has shattered routines and made policymakers reject the idea that past practices can successfully be projected into the future. Policymakers want to break with the British tradition of neglecting youth training. The greater the contextual differences between countries, the greater the tendency to prefer introverted speculation. Many aspects of contemporary economic theory achieve perfect fungibility at an excessively high price. The potential for transferability varies from policy area to policy area.
