Corporate Decision-Making

This course examines corporate decision-making in economic and societal context. I teach the seminar from 2022 onward and taught the lecture in winter 2024/25.

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.