Globalization, Americanization and Europeanization

Multinational companies are among the most important driving forces in the global economy. This course examines how and why these companies were created. What are their competitive advantage and why have they had such success in recent decades? The multinationals will be analysed in light of the changes in the international political economy. Why has there been a surge in foreign direct investment? The course also compares the ‘business-systems’ of different countries and examines the complex relationship between companies, politics and civil society. Why are American, German and for example South Korean companies so different? Phenomenon as market power, inter-firm collusion and cartels will be scrutinized in order to show how contemporary policy on Big Business has evolved.

Historical knowledge on political condistions for economic growth during the period.

Omfanget av hjemmeeksamen: 5 dager, 8-10 sider.