Mexico is undergoing its worst economic cr1s1s since the world depression of the 1930s. In this volume contributors analyze significant patterns that might affect political stability and legitimacy, economic viability, and social change over the next several years, often reaching controversial conclusions. They argue, for example, that the military is not likely to change its present civil-military role; that political opposition, rather than political violence or pressure from foreign governments, will have the most profound influence on the changing pattern of political legitimacy and system stability; and that decision-making in the private sector may have the greatest potential to resolve or exacerbate the current crisis. Finally, they suggest that because economic conditions have been altered so dramatically in the recent period, Mexican policymakers will need to develop a new range of political alternatives to stabilize the economy and redirect the country's future.