Corporate Decision-Making and Societal Responsibility

Undergraduate Course, University of Innsbruck, Department of Economics, 2022

This course examines the intersection of corporate decision-making and societal responsibility, with a focus on sustainable and ethical business practices. The course is structured to include lectures, discussions, and group presentations to deepen understanding and practical application of the topics.

Course Goals

  • To address practical and relevant topics, presenting and discussing them thoroughly.
  • To develop presentation techniques through individual feedback.
  • To enhance argumentation and discussion skills.

Methods

  • Lecture
  • Discussion
  • Group presentation

Topics

  1. Rationality and Irrationality in Economics
    • Fraud, Accounting Scandals, Corruption
    • Behavioral Anomalies
  2. Incentive Systems and Behavior
    • Incentives in Companies and Society
    • Norms, Corporate Cultures, Power
  3. Social Inequality
    • Political and Economic Causes and Effects
    • Technological Revolution, Climate Change, Education
  4. Morality and Markets
    • Digitalization and the Digital Economy
    • Taxation, Redistribution, Tax Evasion

Discussion Topics

  1. The extent of government intervention needed in society and the economy

  2. The feasibility and impact of a 30-hour work week

  3. Economic inequality in society

  4. Redefining wealth beyond growth and consumption

  5. Affordable housing as a fundamental right

  6. Climate change: Individual responsibility vs. political problem

Learning Outcomes

  • Develop and refine research projects on societal and economic issues.
  • Improve academic writing and presentation skills.
  • Engage in and contribute to constructive discussions on societal responsibilities and corporate decision-making.

Target Audience

Undergraduate students interested in corporate ethics, CSR, and sustainable business practices.