A non-expert's chapter-by-chapter guide to John Maynard Keynes' General Theory, the most influential work of economics of the last century. Keynes' General Theory revolutionized economic policy and theory, but it can be dense, cryptic, and hard to follow for modern readers. Even most Keynesian economists have not read it. This companion works through Keynes' argument clearly, explaining his terms, his ideas, and their significance for his time and ours. It also helps explain how the meaning of the word "Keynesian" has become so contentious today, and so important.