As the past provides examples of real life, students can see and assess the outcomes of companies’ and entrepreneurs ‘choices in different space and time. They will better understand the role that political, social cultural and institutional context played in shaping type and activity of the firms, and, vice versa, the contribution that enterprises gave to development and growth of different countries. Moreover, following the historical methods, they will learn to find, critically analyse and logically put together scattered pieces of information, thus improving their research skills, besides critical thinking. Students will also improve soft skills, such as academic writing and public speaking
Prerequisiti
No prerequisite is needed, but a basic knowledge of history, economics and management is recommended
Those who attend the course will have a in class written exam (30%), a take home written exam (30%) and have to prepare a team report and presentation (30%). Attendance and participation in class activity is evaluated as well (10%). One to one discussion on the assigned reading for those who do not attend.
Contenuti
The course first explores the business history literature and methodological aspects, such as bibliographic research and analysis of archive source. Then, it provides an overview of the economic and industrial development of the western world focusing on the transition throughout the first, second and third industrial revolution. During these transformative periods firms had to consider technological advancements, institutional changes, besides institutional, social and cultural environment, in their decision-making processes. The course emphasizes a critical analysis of how different types of enterprises, from family firms to large managerial private and state-owned companies, responded to these factors, exploring successful strategies and potential pitfalls. Single case studies are proposed, so that students can gain further insights into challenges and opportunities faced by firms as they navigated these transitions
