What is this course about?
The
increasing importance of international trade illustrates that nations are more
economically integrated than ever but this, in some opinions, is not an
unalloyed good. Is free trade always desirable? The rise of anti-globalism movements,
the shakiness of some former command economies, the disruptions to communities
when jobs are lost, and the resistance to trade alliances such as NAFTA, CAFTA
or the EU suggests that we do not yet have consensus. Still, the opportunities
are enormous - how should managers respond?
This
course will explore these issues. Through readings and cases, students should
become literate in economic and managerial issues such as basic trade theory,
foreign direct investment and finance, country analysis, and some political
theory. Also, students should be able to reflect on the effects of globalization,
the influence of MNEs in the world, effects of transnational institutions - in
short, to become educated consumers of information about international economic
trends.
You will review and assess issues in national difference in
culture, political economy, and institutional development as well as more basically economic
concerns such as trade policy, direct investment, and monetary policies. Ultimately, we will investigate theories of organization for international business as well as
strategies for entry.
Because this is a blended course, the majority of your work will be in reading and analyzing material and then participating in on-line discussions. Each week, under the tab named "Class Notes", I will summarize the key topical issues and aspects of the readings. This should help guide your reflections and responses.