The spread of capitalism worldwide has made people wealthier than ever before. But capitalism’s future is far from assured. The global financial meltdown of 2008 nearly produced a great
depression. Economies in Europe are still teetering. Income inequality, resource depletion, mass migrations from poor to rich countries, religious fundamentalismthese are just a few of the
threats to continuing prosperity.
How can capitalism be sustained? And who should spearhead the effort? Criticsturn to government. In Capitalism at Risk, Harvard Business School professors Joseph Bower, Herman Leonard, and
Lynn Paine argue that while governments must play a role, businesses should take the lead. For enterprising companieswhether large multinationals, established regional players, or small
start-upsthe current threats to market capitalism present important opportunities.
Capitalism at Risk draws on discussions with business leaders around the world to identify ten potential disruptors of the global market system. Presenting examples of companies already
making a difference, the authors explain how business must serve both as innovator and activistdeveloping corporate strategies that effect change at the community, national, and
international levels.
Filled with rich insights, Capitalism at Risk presents a compelling and constructive vision for the future of market capitalism.
