Is there a long cycle?

Is there a long cycle? This question is of the greatest importance, not only in economic history, but in the interpretation of the current situation. Is the slowing down of world production and trade in the past decade just the consequence of a series of temporary mishaps, whose effects can be rectified - or is the world under the influence of a long cycle, whose effects will still be with us for many years into the future? The author provides analysis in order to shed light on these questions. JEL: E32, F44, N10