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Cliques and Capitalism: A Modern Networked Theory of the Firm

  • 1.  Cliques and Capitalism: A Modern Networked Theory of the Firm

    Posted 12-20-2011 12:02
    Dear Colleagues,

    I'd like to announce my most recent book, released today, "Cliques and
    Capitalism: A Modern Networked Theory of the Firm". It is out in time to add to
    your holiday reading list! Below, are a publisher's description of the book and
    three reviews.

    Also, you may see a list of all my books at:
    http://www.amazon.com/Deborah-E.-De-Lange/e/B004206YYA


    Cliques and Capitalism: A Modern Networked Theory of the Firm

    De Lange suggests a new contextually linked building block model to develop
    theories of the firm in the field of strategy and organizations. Using this
    approach, she proposes two models: one that is a realistic American version and
    another that is a futuristic sustainable model. Both are new networked models
    that integrate current theories; a review of international corporate governance
    supports the sustainable firm that solves problems of the current one. Through
    a
    revised theoretical lens, the book answers a provocative question surrounding
    modern corporate America: Who wields the power? In this investigative look at
    the institutional mechanisms behind who is truly running the show, Cliques and
    Capitalism seeks to not only explain why the current corporate system fails to
    function well, but also offers solutions for improved corporate governance
    through a new sustainable model.

    Reviews:

    "The financial crisis has brought about a great deal of reflection, about the
    efficiency of markets, the effectiveness of governments in smoothing economic
    cycles, and the ability and willingness of profit-oriented actors to police
    themselves. Cliques and Capitalism contributes to this reflection by
    thoughtfully critiquing the American model of corporate governance: Did it
    contribute to the crisis? Has it outlived its usefulness? Is the worst yet to
    come? de Lange suggests yes, yes, and perhaps yes. Drawing on theory and a
    variety of practices from around the world, she also proposes a 'sustainable'
    model of corporate governance that might avert future problems. But can we get
    from here to there?" --Olav Sorenson, professor, Yale School of Management


    "'Too big to fail' became the mantra of the recent financial crises on Wall
    Street. But de Lange's analysis in this book shows that the problems go much
    deeper. Using support from a variety of academic theories, and grounding her
    work in the practical realities of toady's model of the firm, she points out
    that American capitalism has systemic problems that won't go away easily. She
    is not afraid to gore some sacred cows, most notably that the democratization
    of markets is a myth as real power is held by what she calls a `stock market
    bureaucracy.' And she is not afraid to offer solutions to this problem by
    outlining a sustainable model of the firm that is stakeholder and network
    oriented. This book is a valuable contribution for those that care about an
    American capitalism that is sustainable for the long term." --Andrew J.
    Hoffman, Holcim (US) Professor of Sustainable Enterprise, University of
    Michigan


    "This book represents a masterful weaving together of theory and practice,
    international management and strategic management, corporate governance,
    network analysis and sustainability, as well as case studies. Readers -
    researchers, students, and practitioners - interested in understanding the
    modern corporation will love this book. The author's international management
    experience and academic background bring a unique and timely perspective on the
    strengths and weaknesses of large corporations and how to make them work better
    for all stakeholders."--Avner Ben-Ner, professor, Center for Human Resources
    and Labor Studies, Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota and
    affiliated professor, University of Minnesota Law School


    If you read it, I would love to receive your thoughts and comments by email:
    ddelange@mun.ca.

    Happy holidays!

    Dr. Deborah de Lange
    Assistant Professor of International Business
    Faculty of Business Administration
    Memorial University of Newfoundland
    Email: ddelange@mun.ca

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