In Chapter 5, answers are given to the confounding question: why does it work? In author's view, the ever-increasing complexity of international exchanges that marked the turn of the XXth century demanded the injection of simplification, the increase of

the collective intelligence, and the capacity to deal with complicated and protracted common issues. OECD came as a response to this new problem: its mechanics are simple – search for consensus using peer pressure, and the provision of clarity and intelligence on obscure problems. This chapter also provides the examples of clear success stories as well as illustrative failures.

The purpose of the Definitions of Terms in the Appendix is to help readers from other parts of the world, who are less familiar with the concepts, ideas, conventions, and references that have become common usage in OECD member countries.