Edward Elgar Publishing Alliance Capitalism for the New American Economy (New Horizons in International Business series)

Alliance Capitalism for the New American Economy advocates engagement with the USA's macromanagement problems in a spirit of alliance capitalism, for the development of a more integrated, dynamic economy. Whereas most studies of the USA emphasise the efficiency effects of intense competition between firms, this book stresses that as the new economy becomes more knowledge based, its development necessitates active intercorporate cooperation, especially in high technology sectors. The book focuses on problems of balance between competition and cooperation in the relations between American firms, as well as in political competition and cooperation for the management of US economic policy. Public concern over the dynamics of the US political economy has increased since the dramatic disclosures during 2002 of high-risk speculation and fraud by major American enterprises. The authors argue that these problems reflect fierce competition, insufficiently restrained by monitoring and regulation. Imperatives for the development of a more cooperative, collegial style of capitalism are stressed. The authors also highlight the importance of technocratic contributions to the development of corporate alliances and address the increasing significance of working skill levels. This volume will provide valuable reading and reference material for all students, academics and researchers of business and competition policy. Corporate managers and government agencies involved in technology, trade, financial regulation and infrastructure development will also gain practical insights into the benefits of a more cooperative model of capitalism.