This module utilizes the Merck-Vioxx case to explore the political and judicial elements of American capitalism. Key topics include:
Students will critically assess how political factors impact corporate behavior and the broader capitalist system.
This introductory module sets the stage for understanding capitalism by exploring the concept of capital as accumulated wealth used to generate further wealth. Key topics include:
Through discussions and examples, students will grasp the fundamental characteristics of capitalism and its implications for global economies.
This module delves into the theories of Marx and Schumpeter, highlighting their perspectives on capitalism's inherent dynamics. Key points include:
The module emphasizes the constant evolution of capitalist systems and the relevance of labor theory in contemporary economics.
This module discusses the intersection of property rights, freedom, and government roles in capitalism. Important concepts include:
Students will evaluate real-world cases to understand how governmental decisions affect economic landscapes and individual freedoms.
This module focuses on the historical emergence and significance of the joint stock corporation, particularly through the lens of U.S. railroads. Key discussions include:
Students will learn how these developments shaped the landscape of modern capitalism and corporate structures.
This module presents a business case study on CardioThoracic Systems, addressing various barriers to market success. Key points include:
Students will analyze the complexities of the healthcare market and propose strategies for overcoming these challenges.
This module explores the rise and fall of Polaroid Corporation, emphasizing the importance of adapting to market changes. Key topics include:
Students will learn how failure to innovate can lead to the decline of once-dominant firms in a rapidly changing market.
This guest lecture by Jim Alexander provides an insider's view of Enron's corporate ethics and failures. Key points of discussion include:
Through this case, students gain insights into the importance of ethical behavior in corporate environments and the consequences of neglecting it.
This module features Will Goetzmann discussing the history of debt and its impact on financial crises, focusing on:
Students will explore the dynamics of financial crises and the roles various actors play in shaping economic outcomes.
This module addresses accountability and greed in investment banking, starting with the Coase Theorem. Key concepts include:
Students will reflect on how property rights and incentives shape economic transactions and behaviors in the banking sector.
This module explores the subprime mortgage crisis, analyzing the roles of various actors and government involvement. Key discussions include:
Students will understand the interconnectedness of these actors and the systemic risks present in mortgage markets.
This module utilizes the Merck-Vioxx case to explore the political and judicial elements of American capitalism. Key topics include:
Students will critically assess how political factors impact corporate behavior and the broader capitalist system.
This module examines the rise of mass affluence in the West, exploring crucial factors like:
Students will engage with various theories explaining the roots of mass affluence and its implications for modern capitalism.
This module explores Hernando de Soto's theories on dead and live capital, highlighting the importance of integrating informal property rights. Key discussions include:
Students will engage in discussions about effective economic development strategies in the context of property rights.
This module discusses Aravind Adiga's novel "The White Tiger," addressing issues of inequality and corruption in developing countries. Key points include:
Students will draw connections between the novel's themes and broader discussions on capitalism's nature and challenges.
This module analyzes the SELCO business case, focusing on distributed electric power generation in rural India. Key discussions include:
Students will propose strategies to enhance SELCO's business model and address operational hurdles.
This module discusses the inadequacies of GDP as a measure of societal wellbeing, emphasizing alternative perspectives on development. Key discussions include:
Students will consider how reform-oriented policies can better address the needs of the poorest nations.
This module discusses policy targets for capitalist development, using practical examples from recent political events. Key topics include:
Students will engage in discussions about the interplay between capitalism and governance while proposing actionable solutions.
This two-part guest lecture by Paolo Zanonni provides insights into Goldman Sachs' transition from a partnership to a hybrid model. Key discussions include:
Students will learn about the complexities of corporate governance and the balance between ownership structures and operational efficiency.
This module continues the exploration of Goldman Sachs, focusing on a complex deal in the European utilities market. Key points include:
Students will evaluate the interplay between politics and free-market operations, drawing lessons for future transactions.
This module discusses the TXU v. EDF case, focusing on the environmental interests surrounding private equity deals. Key discussions include:
Students will explore how companies navigate complex interests to achieve mutual goals, emphasizing the role of public perception.
This concluding module synthesizes key themes and thinkers discussed throughout the course. Key elements include:
Students will reflect on the intersection between capitalism and societal needs, considering actionable insights for future developments.