Arbetsrapport,
Institute for Futures Studies

Abstract:

This study discusses social capital and related concepts that can be useful when analysing cartels. Different types of definitions of social capital are discussed. It is concluded that organisations can generate social capital which results in increased ability to cooperate in efficient ways. Organised social capital can lead to confidence, facilitating cooperation when trust is not enough.

The empirical case discussed in the paper is cartel formation in Swedish brewing industry. This study confirms many results indicated in different case studies: the importance of organisation, leadership, control apparatus, industry specific circumstances, and that cartel success often is preceded by failures. The brewing case is used in the theoretical discussion of social capital.

The societal context of this study is the stricter cartel policy since the 1990s. A hypothetical construction of four phases for 1870-2009 is made, based on institutional environment and possibilities for cartels to cooperate efficiently.

Keywords: Social capital; Cartels; Swedish brewing industry; Cartel policy; Institutional environment

JEL-codes: A14; N40; N80

19 pages, May 20, 2009

Price: 25 SEK

Note: ISSN: 1652-120X; ISBN: 978-91-85619-47-4

Full text files

20090527105622filcKaI5qXIZsWaTPb0V8nW.pdf  

Download statistics

• Institute for Futures Studies
• Ordering Working Papers
• Home page for this series

Questions (including download problems) about the papers in this series should be directed to Erika Karlsson ()
Report other problems with accessing this service to Sune Karlsson ().

RePEc:hhs:ifswps:2009_008This page generated on 2024-09-13 22:15:23.