bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
European Community Strategy on Civil Liability for Waste
and its Insurance Implications
Authors: Bell Christopher L.
Published: May 2006

As pollution of the environment increases the demand from the
public that action be taken to clean up the mess also increases. The
question of financial cost of this clean‐up is of prime importance:
“Who pays?” Many companies are now looking at insurance
cover as a means of covering their liability.
The Psychological Impact of Disaster and the Nature of
Critical Incident Stress for Emergency Personnel
Authors: James Alma
Published: May 2006

Examines the stresses imposed on rescuers and their needs for
emotional and psychological support. The vulnerability of the emergency
personnel involved during a disaster has often not been recognized.
Discusses the symptoms of post‐traumatic stress disorder along with
diagnosis and treatment methods.
An Analysis of the Causes and Consequences of Accidents
Affecting the Environment
Authors: Allen F.R. , Fryer L. , Zahid M.
Published: May 2006

Describes a database that has been set up to analyse accidents
which pose a hazard to the environment. Presents the preliminary results
of an analysis of the data, from which useful insights have been
obtained.
The Scientific Basis of Disaster Management
Authors: Gunn S.W.A.
Published: May 2006

Discusses the origins of the new science of disaster management,
which has evolved during the last decade or so from unorganized, ad
hoc disaster assistance. Looks at the development of international
aid agencies – the Red Cross, the UNRRA and the WHO. Defines
disaster and medicine, and highlights three areas where scientific
underpinning has been effective and where the scientific basis of
disaster management is being strengthened: the scientific approach;
epidemiological advances; training for disaster management.
The Language of Disasters: Disaster Terminology for a New
Europe
Authors: Gunn S.W.A.
Published: May 2006

Argues that a “common language” and standardized
terminology are needed if the different governments and agencies, etc.,
involved in disaster management and response, are to be able to
communicate effectively with each other and thus avoid compounding the
difficulties involved. Presents a selection of terms from the Civil
Protection Multilingual Lexicon, in the nine official languages of
the European Community, which has been drawn up to meet this need.
DESIGNING A RESPONSIVE QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Authors: Coffey John
Published: May 2006

Wolsey Hall was one of the first open learning providers to obtain BS 5750. In developing this, the college considered developing a TQM approach but felt that it needed a more procedural base to work from. Discusses the approach taken and follows this through to implementation. This included the modification of the company culture to suit the new conditions via a quality focused training programme. Uses the Wolsey Hall experience to illustrate a general description of issues that medium sized service companies need to consider when developing a quality management system.
ACTION LEARNING YOUR WAY TO ISO 9000
Authors: Peters John
Published: May 2006

Implementing quality initiatives often fail as the quality managers try to adapt the organization to preconceived ideas of the standard rather than developing the standard around the organization. Looks at a new approach to achieving ISO 9000 through action learning.
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND ORGANIZATIONAL SUCCESS ‐ QUALITY THROUGH PEOPLE
Authors: Brighton Roy
Published: May 2006

Follows the implementation of a quality programme through from start to finish. Introduces the approach of personalizing quality so that each individual takes an element of responsibility for the quality management system and highlights the importance of departmental qualities with appropriate measures as well. Finally, concludes with five key points for all those trainers tasked with carrying such a programme.
COSTS, DRAWBACKS AND BENEFITS ‐ THE CUSTOMER′S VIEW OF BS 5750
Authors: Street Philip A. , Fernie June M.
Published: May 2006

Very little research is available to help companies which are considering attaining BS 5750. The information that is available tends to be somewhat biased, either coming from the auditing organization, such as BSI, or a consultancy that is in the business of helping companies to achieve this standard. Offers an analysis of both why companies decide to go for the standard in the first place as well as what they hope to achieve. Examines such thorny issues as audit frequency as well as the need to implement additional supporting programmes in order to cement the standard into the culture of the organization.
SEVEN ESSENTIALS FOR MANAGING SUPERIOR CUSTOMER SERVICE
Authors: Macaulay Steve , Cook Sarah
Published: May 2006

Examines the focus on customer service while at the same time maximizing the use of resources. Suggests that through effective management of resources a balance between the cost and quality of human resources can be achieved. Maintains that customer service is the key to success for an organization, and offers seven suggestions for managing a “superior” service. Concludes that successful customer‐focused organizations: do what they say; make what matters to the customer their priority; find ways to improve; make positive personal contact with the customer; and have well‐trained and motivated staff who work well together.
SERVICE QUALITY: DEFINITIONS, DETERMINANTS AND MEASUREMENT
Authors: Lewis Barbara R.
Published: May 2006

Concerned with customer service/quality in service sector organizations, reviews some of the core literature in which service quality is defined and its determinants are identified. Follows with some examples of research completed in the Manchester School of Management which focus on the measurement of service quality in the health care sector; namely, hospital in‐patients, general practice patients, and users of family planning services.
QUALITY TRAINING AND CORPORATE TRANSFORMATION
Authors: Coulson‐Thomas Colin J.
Published: May 2006

Draws on a number of recent surveys to address the issue of why corporate transformation and total quality are taking longer to achieve than was first envisaged. Concludes that a more holistic approach is required than is often applied. Successfully implementing a transformation programme depends critically on the relevance of the selection, combination and application of change elements to the requirements of the situation at each stage of the change process.
OWNING THE PROCESS OF QUALITY IMPROVEMENT
Authors: Barnsley Geoff
Published: May 2006

Looks at three very different organizations which introduced total quality management following a common framework involving a four‐stage approach to implementation. Through the case studies, describes the TQM process which involved diagnosing areas of weakness and strength, commitment building, training in‐house facilitators to help others to use improvement tools and techniques and to facilitate change. Each of the three companies developed their own, different styles of implementing TQM, but all demonstrated that TQM is a process of continuous improvement.
The Product Management Audit
Authors: Quelch John A. , Farris Paul W. , Olver James
Published: May 2006

Reports on a survey of how product managers, experiencing increased
time pressure, would like to spend their time compared with how they
actually spend it. Reviews the changes in the marketing environment
currently exerting pressure on the product management system. Explains
the implementation of a product management audit. Presents findings from
actual audit surveys and shows how one company used an audit to identify
and solve problems within its product management organization. Concludes
that the product management audit is an excellent tool for producing
hard data which may be missed by management by walking around.
A Survey of Recent Econometric Work on the NAIRU
Authors: Cromb Roy
Published: May 2006

Compares Layard, Nickell and Jackman′s empirical model of UK unemployment with other time‐series econometric studies to assess whether the balance of evidence supports their analysis. Compares estimates of the effect on the UK NAIRU of factors such as benefits, union strength, mismatch, taxes, the exchange rate and hysteresis. Highlights and discusses differences of approach – e.g. to the exogeneity of the real exchange rate, the permanence of wedge effects and to hysteresis. Empirical results are found to be very sensitive to the precise way in which models are formulated and estimated. This suggests that any estimates of the level of the NAIRU are likely to be unreliable. Finds however, considerable empirical support for the kind of interactions between wages, prices and unemployment that Layard, Nickell and Jackman include in their model.
Openness, Imperfect Competition and the NAIRU
Authors: Harrigan Frank , McGregor Peter G. , Swales Kim , Ping Yin Ya
Published: May 2006

Considers the treatment of openness and imperfect competition in
the influential analysis of Layard, Nickell and Jackman′s (LNJ′s) Unemployment: Macroeconomic Performance and the Labour Market.
Clarifies and completes LNJ′s treatment of openness through the
provision of explicit analytical solutions to their model under fixed
and flexible exchange rate regimes. Also provides a (largely informal)
analysis of the sensitivity of the LNJ model′s results to the particular
forms of imperfect competition assumed. It is argued that openness is
crucial to the model′s properties, whereas imperfect competition is not.
However, imperfect competitive behaviour may, more generally, have a
major impact if it is not confined to the “well‐behaved
form” allowed by LNJ.
The NAIRU as a Theory of Equilibrium Unemployment
Authors: Cross Rod
Published: May 2006

Assesses the NAIRU framework for analysing the determinants of
equilibrium unemployment, as expressed in Layard, Nickell and Jackman′s
Unemployment: Macroeconomic Performance and the Labour Market.
It is argued that the NAIRU has produced many useful insights regarding
the effects of socio‐economic factors on wage determination, but has not
produced a plausible account of the determination of equilibrium
unemployment.
The University as an Economic Institution: The Political
Economy of the Althoff System
Authors: Backhaus Jurgen G.
Published: May 2006

Friedrich Althoff (1839‐1908), who created the “Althoff
system”, has had a singularly important influence on shaping
academic institutions in Germany for almost a generation. As a close
collaborator of leading German scholars his influence lasted almost
throughout the second empire (1882‐1907). He has been described as
brilliant by some and disastrous by others. Recent advances in the new
institutional economics and the economic analysis of the organization of
inquiry, as well as better access to the archival materials, have
created the possibility of arriving at a clearer picture of the Althoff
system. Is a first attempt at an economic analysis of the Althoff
system; therefore should be viewed as an exploratory essay. In
particular, addresses three questions: What precisely was the Althoff
system? How can we go about analysing the system? How did the system
function and perform? The essay has five substantive parts: first,
offers a brief introduction to science research as it is currently
practised in economics; second, introduces the historical record and the
main criticism levelled against the system and offers a stylized
description of the Althoff system in terms of emphasizing key features;
third, subjects the stylized features of the system to economic
analysis, relying heavily on the property rights theory of the firm and
treating the university as an economic institution; fourth, takes a
slightly different approach by applying Gordon Tullock′s analysis of the
organization of inquiry to the Althoff system; fifth, offers a summary
of the findings and an economic definition of the Althoff system.
The University as a Social Institution: The Change in
Academic Institutions in Germany at the End of the Nineteenth Century
Authors: Prisching Manfred
Published: May 2006

Looks at the university at the end of the nineteenth century using
the concept of a “social institution”, and applying four
approaches. A functional analysis provides insights into the kinds of
knowledge a university produces. Examination of changes in these
functions in the nineteenth century emphasizes the new institutions that
were founded and changes in the recruitment of social elites. Political
analysis looks at outside influences and considers especially the powers
of nation, church and state. A structural analysis discusses
organizational and resource issues. Sociocultural analysis reveals the
principles of universities: priority of research, combination of
research and teaching, freedom of scholarship and the problem of Bildung.
Entrepreneurship in a Bureaucracy: The Case of Friedrich
Althoff
Authors: Peirce W.S. , Kruger P.
Published: May 2006

Discusses the factors relating to the success of Friedrich Althoff
as an innovator (or entrepreneur), within the nineteenth century
bureaucratic Prussian public administration, that enabled him to be the
driving force in the building of the university system. These include
acquiring control over resources (salesmanship); the political skills of
evaluation, of dealing with superiors in the system, and negotiating
with other departments and other powerful groups (Althoff had to bypass
hierarchical constraints from above); mastery of his own field, tight
management; and an immense capacity for work. The prevailing stereotypes
of bureaucracy have no room for the public entrepreneur who succeeds
only by usurping the role of bureaucracy within his own private realm.
Althoff′s Administration of the Academic System: An
Economic Approach
Authors: Vereeck Lode
Published: May 2006

Argues that the autonomy of the Althoff administration was based on
the “personal regime” of Friedrich Althoff. The public
choice approach of bureaucratic behaviour reveals the basis for this
autonomy: professionalism and continuity. Manageable span of control and
entrepreneurship safeguarded the internal efficiency of Althoff′s
agency. The information network of Althoff allowed the German scientific
community to play its role as defined by the economics of inquiry. The
auditing procedures of the community, that allow for technical and
allocative efficiency, exert such pressure on its members that it works
both as a voluntary monitoring device and as an incentive structure. In
order to reduce the huge monitoring costs of scientific production,
adopting a bureaucratic structure for the large academic organization of
the Althoff system is consistent with the arguments that transaction
cost analysis provides. The principal‐agent problem that arises from the
attenuation of control, characteristic of bureaucracy, was solved by the
comparative information advantage and the autonomy of the Althoff
administration. Property‐rights theory further suggests that the
centralized autocratic managing style improved academic productivity.
The efficient organization of the Althoff system (both the
administration and the academic organization) constituted a major
improvement for the development and recognition of German science and
scholarship.
Are Scientists Different?
Authors: Tullock Gordon
Published: May 2006

Discusses the defensiveness of professions, the confusion of
professional status and expertise with superior human qualities, the
“democratization” of learning, and the nature of scientific
endeavour. Notes that the bulk of professional scientists are not doing
anything significant in the way of research. Argues that while the
volume of publications is such that much of it cannot be widely read, if
at all, this does allow the recording of research regardless of its
contemporary importance and serves for the advancement of science and of
scientific careers. Narrowness of refereeing is a constraint, as is the
combination of teaching with research, and the demand for directed
research. Nevertheless, while the way in which scientific inquiry is
presently organized is far from perfect, science does advance and
sometimes by unpredictable paths.
Economic Explanations of the Behaviour of Universities and Scholars
Authors: Diamond Arthur M.
Published: May 2006

Surveys, from an American perspective, the existing literature on economic explanations of the behaviour of universities and scholars. The modern literature is put in historical perspective introduced by a brief discussion of the positions of two of the earliest and most distinguished contributors to the literature: Adam Smith and Max Weber. Discusses the human capital and implicit contracts literatures of the behaviour of scholars, the latter elaborated in terms of the issue of tenure. The most common theoretical economic analysis of the university is the view that it is best thought of as a non‐profit organization. Discusses variants of this view, with special attention to the literature on rent‐seeking in academe. Goes on to the empirical literature on the economics of academe in the areas of academic institutions, academic earnings functions, the earnings and status of minority scholars and academic production functions. Briefly considers the relevance of the current literature to the Althoff system, suggesting that Althoff′s able, trusted advisers, and his system of institutes, may have allowed him to avoid several inefficiences that have been identified by economists as present in other academic institutions. Although the centralization of decision making in the hands of one decision maker may be efficient if the decision maker is exceptionally able, more commonly the most efficient system will be a decentralized system that allows for greater diversity and competition. Concludes with a discussion of how hypotheses on the efficiency (and fairness) of various aspects of the Althoff system could, in principle, be tested.
Althoff and the Changing Constitution of Science: Bureaucratic, Economical or Cognitive?
Authors: Spinner Helmut F.
Published: May 2006

With respect to the guiding “ideas” of Humboldt and their consequences for the constitution of science, describes the transition to a modern research university with the emergence of theory‐based practice, science‐based technology and technology‐based industry. The pure research imperative is endangered or even substituted by a new technological imperative
How Much State University Education in a Free Society? Some
Remarks on the ″Althoff System″
Authors: Leube Kurt R.
Published: May 2006

Examines the social aspects of the compatibility of public academic
education with the principles of a free society. Discusses state
education with regard to “equal treatment for all” and the
question of who will benefit from such treatment.
The Impact of the Prussian and German University
Administrations on the Austrian University System between 1875 and 1914
Authors: Hoflechner Walter
Published: May 2006

Describes the development of the Austrian university system
1875‐1914. German influence was detrimental to Austrian universities′
hopes for improving standards, higher status and autonomy. German
scholarship was linked with German nationalism – increasing
conflict between German‐speaking and non‐Germanspeaking institutions in
Austria. German scholarship commanded high respect and German
universities attracted professors away. University expansion created a
market for professors and the Austrian universities were at a
disadvantage.
Schmoller and Althoff at the University of Strasburg
Authors: Balabkins Nicholas W.
Published: May 2006

Describes briefly the personal histories and important professional
association of Gustav Schmoller and Friedrich Althoff emphasizing their
innovatory period 1870‐1882 at Strasburg.
The Creation of Business Economics as a Discipline
Authors: Schneider Dieter
Published: May 2006

Compares research and teaching of today′s business economics with its predecessor disciplines before 1890. Describes attempts to organize commercial high schools from 1890 – business economics has its roots in these institutions. Discusses the reasons for the separation of business economics, as a discipline, from political economy. Paramount among these was a quarrel about value judgements.
Managing for Total Training Quality
Authors: Chaston Ian
Published: May 2006

As employers have recognized the potential impact of training
schemes to increase organizational productivity this had led to an
expansion of competence development programmes. Although one could
reasonably expect this increase to be accompanied by the introduction of
sophisticated training evaluation systems this has not occurred.
Traditional approaches such as direct assessment of employee knowledge,
attitudes and skills are still prevalent. Proposes an alternative
evaluation model which draws on concepts associated with total quality
management. The evaluation is extended to cover assessment of: employee
satisfaction; satisfaction of the employee′s superior; persons to whom
the employee provides outputs; and the organization′s external
customers. Describes application of the model during all phases of the
training programme design through to delivery of training: Examines the
implications of the model in organizations which have adopted total
quality management.
Corporate Culture or Customer Care: Where Does the Buck
Stop?
Authors: Bennett Anthony R.
Published: May 2006

Offers some new and different insights into the field of management
development. Begins by inviting the reader to consider that bottom‐line
profit results are influenced by the behaviour of, and attention to,
both internal and external customers. An example is then used to explain
how the context for management development hinges on three key
organizational factors, namely culture, consultation and commitment.
Links this contextual framework to two important business profiles,
namely the business strategy profile and the business planning profile,
in order to locate the management development context. Reinforces the
view that training initiatives such as “customer care”
programmes only really work when the context is not only explained to
staff, but that such initiatives are finite, measurable in results
terms, and carry customer‐related benefits which affect the
profitability of the business. Argues that unplanned staff development
initiatives can militate against real progress being made, simply
because of the lack of contextual integration.
Using Skills Needs Assessment in Support of Economic
Development Strategies: A Practitioner’s Approach
Authors: Geroy Gary D. , Wright Phillip C.
Published: May 2006

Summarizes experience gained from implementation and review of the
needs assessment process in 12 client‐driven applied research studies
and puts it forth as a set of propositions which relate to decisions
concerning organization and societal economic development projects.
Suggests that a needs‐assessment process must be client‐owned, pragmatic
and result in outcomes which are usable and perceived by stakeholders to
be important. As well as being grounded in economic and research theory,
a needs assessment must contain definable data sets comprising
skill/knowledge profiles categorized into some usable format. The 12
studies provide support for these ideas, validating models characterized
by intensive involvement and topdown/bottom‐up consultation developed in
the authors′ previous publications.
National Synopsis of the Situation of Environmental
Training in Belgium
Authors: Geers Frederick
Published: May 2006

Presents the result of a study that was made within the framework
of CEDEFOP′s information network in a transnational dossier on training
and environment in Belgium, the Federal Republic of Germany and The
Netherlands. The national synopsis on Belgium traces down in a
systematic and structural way to what degree environment training supply
exists and is developed. For every educational level, every large
training operator and various training systems Other aspects dealt with,
are the organizational framework, research concerning environmental
training and the European dimension.
Upward Appraisal of Lecturers: Lessons From Industry?
Authors: Redman Tom , McElwee Gerard
Published: May 2006

Upward appraisal involves a formal input by students/staff into the
performance appraisal of their lecturers/managers. Briefly reviews the
literature on upward appraisal and examines its practice in higher
education by exploring the experiences and perceptions of a sample of
lecturers drawn from a UK business school. Examines the integration of
upward appraisal into the wider decision‐making processes on teaching
and learning strategies and suggests areas for future research on upward
appraisal. Argues that potential to facilitate improvements in
performance may be undermined in practice by problems in implementation
and, paradoxically, may lead to a reduction in student and lecturer
commitment. Draws out for higher education some lessons from industry′s
more advanced use of upward appraisal.
Upward Appraisal in Practice: An Illustrative Example Using the Qualed Model
Authors: McElwee Gerard , Redman Tom
Published: May 2006

The quality of the services provided by educational institutions
has largely been undefined and under‐researched. Reports on some of the
insights obtained in a preliminary investigation of quality in a
university business school using upward appraisal. It demonstrates how
the SERVQUAL model, developed for application within the financial
services sector, has been redesigned to measure those components of
service in higher education which generate student (customer)
satisfaction.
The User‐friendly CV
Authors: Hinds Mike
Published: May 2006

Reveals the results of a survey into what recruiters expected from
a Curriculum Vitae (CV). Suggests that certain preferences are in
conflict with Equal Opportunities Commission guidelines and the
Institute of Personnel Management Code of Practice and that candidates
who do not disclose salary details may be disadvantaged. Examines the
main findings dealing with personal details, education and training,
employment history, remuneration and format and presentation of the CV.
Restructuring Management towards Better Customer Service: A Case Study
Authors: Wickenden Janet
Published: May 2006

Presents an analysis of customer service in an old‐established food
manufacturing company against the background of accelerating changes in
food retailing. Discusses in detail distribution as an increasingly
important function and recommends restructuring of management to give
closer integration between functions and closer attention to
distribution.
Setting Standards for Quality Service in Logistics
Authors: Lancioni Richard , Gattorna John L.
Published: May 2006

Superior customer service is necessary to maintain a competitive
edge in international logistics. In order to develop a comprehensive
customer service programme, a company must establish service levels for
its customers, beginning with order cycle time and including all aspects
of the customer service cycle. Discusses the importance of service
standards and the areas in customer service where they should be
developed. Describes standard variances and stresses the need to develop
incentives for meeting service standard goals.
Developing a Customer‐focused Logistics Strategy
Authors: Lambert Douglas M.
Published: May 2006

The increasing rate of change in technologies and markets and the
search for competitive advantage, have led to a new focus on logistics
strategy and management. In the dynamic, competitive environment of the
1990s, the successful companies will be those who recognize and take
advantage of the leverage which can be gained by effective management of
the supply chain, from supplier through end users. The starting point in
developing a logistics strategy must be a thorough understanding of
final customers′ requirements. Only then is it possible to determine the
required performance of firms throughout the supply chain. Integrated
information systems and strategic alliances/partnerships will play an
important role in achieving the desired levels of service performance.
As markets fragment, it will be critical to be able to identify the
profitability of customers and products as well as how alternative
logistics strategies affect the profitability of these segments of the
business.
Logistics Networks: Achieving Quantum Improvements in Cost/Service Equations
Authors: Gattorna John L.
Published: May 2006

Examines the paradox facing companies in general of how to take
cost out of a logistics network, while simultaneously maintaining or
improving agreed levels of service, and seeks an answer in the fields of
behavioural science, culture, organizational design and operations
research. Taking one UK company as an example, looks at aspects of
quality service, product behaviour vis‐á‐vis
logistics, optimization modelling, the various phases of the model and
the expected benefits of the whole project. Concludes that organizations
following this methodology have acquired the means to ascertain
strategic and tactical shifts in direction without being compelled to
make on‐the‐ground changes.
EDI Implementation: A Comparative Study of JIT and Non‐JIT Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Banerjee Snehamay , Golhar Damodar Y.
Published: May 2006

To compete successfully in the global market, firms are adopting
new technologies and manufacturing strategies. The just‐in‐time (JIT)
philosophy and electronic data interchange (EDI) are two recent
developments that can help these firms. The success of JIT depends on
timely and effective exchange of information between the manufacturing
firm and its trading partners. The literature suggests that EDI, as a
communication tool, can meet this demand. However, no study investigates
the impact of EDI in the JIT environment. Also, the literature lacks a
thorough investigation of the EDI benefits realized by JIT and non‐JIT
manufacturing firms. Examines these issues and finds that the reason for
choosing EDI and the benefits realized by JIT firms differ from those of
the non‐JIT firms. Suggests that JIT firms benefit more from EDI than
non‐JIT firms.
Just‐in‐Time Manufacturing and Materials – Handling Trends
Authors: Giust Louis
Published: May 2006

Discusses the misconceptions about just‐in‐time (JIT) manufacturing
which have developed since its inception in the mid‐1960s and with
respect to its application to at least four different manufacturing
strategies: scale‐based, focused factories, variety‐driven and, now,
time‐based. Outlines the core elements of the JIT concept and several of
the primary misconceptions. Introduces a production‐distribution model
to illustrate JIT practices in the context of industrial dynamics. If
the essential paradigm of JIT and industrial dynamics is missed, this
will lead many firms to erroneous application and conclusions about
JIT′s effectiveness. JIT manufacturing in the EC has that potential.
Provides a forecast of the probable effects and conditions within the
Common Market.
Socialism and its Future in the Post‐Soviet Era
Authors: Elliott John E.
Published: May 2006

Provides an overall assessment of problems and prospects for
socialism (at a time of the abolition of the old Union of Soviet
Socialist Republics and creation of a new “Commonwealth of
Independent States”) by examination of three central themes.
First, it is shown that because the old Soviet regime departed
substantially from the classic conceptualizations of socialism, its
demise does not demonstrate a “failure” of socialism or a
“victory” of capitalism. Second, dissolution of the old
regime does demonstrate serious problems in the actual,
over‐centralized, authoritarian, state‐directed Soviet economy. Third,
partly because of the confusion between an authentic socialism and the
actual Soviet regime, prospects for socialism seem very slim. But
socialist ideals of democracy and equality are deeply embedded in the
popular psyche and will continue to affect the character and pace of
social change.
Is Socialism Economically Feasible? An Analysis of Marxian Answers
Authors: Howard M.C. , King J.E.
Published: May 2006

Analyses the economics of socialism within the Marxian tradition.
The ideas of Marx and Engels are included, as are those of the theorists
of the Second International. The debate on market socialism associated
with Oskar Lange also receives attention. The evolution of Mises′s and
Hayek′s responses is traced, and there is an outline of how economists
in Eastern Europe have come to similar conclusions to these Austrians.
Concludes with an assessment of the economics of socialism in the work
of contemporary theorists.
Marx, Engels and Economic Evolution
Authors: Hodgson Geoffrey M.
Published: May 2006

Marx is widely regarded today as an “evolutionary”
economist. However, what is clear from a close examination of the
writings of both Marx and Engels is that they did not actually take
Darwin′s theory of natural selection on board. Consequently, if their
theory of socio‐economic change is evolutionary, it is not so in a
Darwinian sense. Considers the different sense in which the economics of
Marx can be regarded as “evolutionary” and the distance
between Darwinian and Marxian conceptions of natural or social change.
How to Realize an “Economic Miracle” in a Socialist Country: A Stabilization Plan for Poland
Authors: Rugina Anghel N.
Published: May 2006

Proposes and outlines a plan for the passage from the old state
economy in Poland to a new most perfect regime of social markets based
on conditions of general stable equilibrium conditions, something quite
different from the prevailing capitalist markets in the West. Meanwhile
the Polish Government has adopted the Western capitalist type of market
economy. The results after two years are far from satisfactory. In view
of these negative results this plan remains as the best alternative. The
expression “socialist democracy” used, however, has nothing
to do with the old socialist regime in Poland.
Towards a New Economic Order in the Countries of Central and Eastern Europe
Authors: Riha Tomas J.F.
Published: May 2006

Political changes in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe
have created both the preconditions as well as the need for the
transition from the old to a new economic order. In the absence of any
ready substitute, the institutional vacuum which arose plunged the
majority of these countries into economic chaos and anarchy. A way of
arresting this continuing drift towards chaos and political discontent
is not to be found by striving for the reintroduction of laissez‐faire. A new stable economic order can be established only
on the precepts of a just society. Suggests two alternatives delegating
decision making in the sphere of economics to groups and formations
outside parliament, or establishing a socially reponsible free market
economy. The transition process probably would go through the phases:
from plan to anarchy to group control to legally constrained market
control.
Theoretical Expositions of Centralized versus Decentralized Strands of Socialist Economic Systems
Authors: Dowlah Abu F.
Published: May 2006

Extensions/applications/revisions of the Marxian vision of
socialism can broadly be categorized into two polar strands: the
centralized and the decentralized strands of socialist economic systems.
Explores the main postulates of a decentralized version of a socialist
economic system as provided by Kautsky, Luxembourg, Bernstein, Bukharin
and Lange. The centralized strand of socialist economic systems has been
elaborated drawing mainly from the writings of Lenin, Trotsky, Dobb,
Sweezy and Baran.
Can Economic Systems be Chosen? History, Values and Human Nature
Authors: Armour Leslie
Published: May 2006

Neither Marxists and Hegelians nor most supporters of market
economies believe that we can really choose an economic system.
Historical laws and economic realities undermine our attempts. Explores
the problem of predicting any human future and examines background views
of human nature which influenced classical economics. Revives
Malebranche′s view that man is necessarily an ordering creature. Man
must make decisions, but tends towards a natural good which would be
instantiated in a social system which reconciled self‐interest and the
public interest so that everyone′s rational needs and reasonable desires
were given proper weight. In these terms there are choices we can make,
especially about how property is to be used and shared.
Walter Eucken: Social Economist
Authors: Karsten Siegfried G.
Published: May 2006

Eucken′s paradigm of a “social market economy” provides a framework for a functional free‐market mechanism, which not only accommodates development and change, but which also assures human dignity and freedom. Eucken places special emphasis on the integration of economics with “order” and “justice”. He holds that an unconstrainedlaissez‐faireeconomy does not assure a competitive economy but that it will degenerate into monopolistic practices. Eucken formulates his “structural” and “regulating” principles to facilitate a functionally competitive economy with a compatible social policy, to assure greater efficiency and to reduce poverty.
Capital‐Labour Tensions and Liberal Economic Thought
Authors: Wisman Jon D.
Published: May 2006

It was typical in nineteenth century economic thought to view the
tensions between the interests of capital and labour as critical to
industrial society. Yet later economic thought has generally reduced
these tensions to those captured in contract theory. Explores how
this narrowing of focus has cast an important source of contemporary
social dynamics into the shadows. A broad survey is made of the various
ways in which capital‐labour tensions are manifested in today′s advanced
industrial economies, with special attention given to the case of the
USA. Concludes with a discussion of how intensified international
competitiveness, combined with our increasing distance from the threat
of material privation, may force societies to restructure their economies
so as to eliminate the source of capital‐labour tensions. The task facing
liberal economic thought is to expand its scope to better provide
guidance for meeting this challenge.
Inter‐firm and Supra‐firm Co‐operation in the Workplace and the Marketplace
Authors: O'Boyle Edward J.
Published: May 2006

Examines inter‐firm and supra‐firm co‐operation both in principle and
in practice. Five cases are presented as examples of inter‐firm or supra‐firm
co‐operation in the workplace or the marketplace.
The Disintegration of the Soviet Union
Authors: Raiklin Ernest
Published: May 2006

Attempts to discover an internal logic in the high‐speed events
taking place in the former Soviet Union. In addressing the problems of
the country′s disintegration, examines the issue in its socioeconomic,
political and territorial‐administrative aspects. Analyses, for this
purpose, the nature of Soviet society prior to Gorbachev′s reforms, its
present transitional stage and its probable direction in the near
future.
The Legacy of Communism: Poisoned Minds and Souls
Authors: Tamedly Lenches Elisabeth
Published: May 2006

Discusses the communist system, based on an èlite Party
and the privileged nomenklatura which executes its orders. An
ubiquitous secret police, whose tentacles reach into the most private
spheres of the citizens, kills any opposition in its bud. The people are
constantly indoctrinated with Marxist‐Leninist ideology which also
justifies the total power of the Party. The ideals of egalitarianism and
open‐ended social obligation, inculcated from early childhood on, led to
“apathy, indifference, and the disdain of honest work”
(Shmelev) as well as widespread dishonesty. The population was kept
ignorant by hermetically sealed borders and subjected to constant
humiliation. Advancement depended not on hard work, but on Party
loyalty. Laws served only a decorative function. The mafia has
flourished under these conditions, once clandestinely, now for all to
see. The result is a moral vacuum, a spiritual and physical decline of
the citizenry who, unfamiliar with self‐responsibility and freedom, feel
threatened by change.
Requiem for Communism: The Case of Hungary
Authors: Hill Lewis E. , Magas István
Published: May 2006

Attempts to specify and to explicate some of the most important
reasons for the failure of communism or state socialism. Analyses the
general case of Eastern Europe, then applies the analysis to the
specific case of Hungary. Second, deduces a model of market socialism
from the theories of Fred M. Taylor and Oskar Lange. Argues that the
Taylor‐Lange model of market socialism certainly could be and probably
would be a completely valid and viable economic system. Proposes,
moreover, that this system of market socialism may prove a better
alternative economic system than capitalism for the Eastern European
nations that have abandoned communism.
Justice, Solidarity, Subsidiarity: The Demise of East German Communism
Authors: Karsten Siegfried G.
Published: May 2006

Sees East Germany as an important case study of an ideologically dogmatic bureaucracy which ignored people′s deep‐seated ethical norms and values. The principles of solidarity, subsidiarity and justice were insufficiently exercised. The political leadership failed to recognize and understand the degree of people′s resignation and frustration, being out of touch with socioeconomic reality. Hence it programmed false decision making and inefficiencies into a system which was held together by an excessive police apparatus, repression, corruption and propaganda. As a result, the East German system imploded under its own irrationality, induced by an almost complete loss of confidence in the ruling party and the government. Addresses primarily ethical rather than economic issues which successfully challenged the East German state.
Soviet Socialism: The Era of War Communism
Authors: Dowlah Abu F.
Published: May 2006

The Soviet experiment on socialism provides several distinguishable politico‐economic models. Employing dialectical methodology, examines the political economy of War Communism (1917‐21) as an exemplar of the “Socialist Command Model”. Explores the economic, political and social forces that were responsible for the emergence of the model, its policies, programmes and consequences, and finally, the forces that made it obsolete for the subsequent stages of Soviet development.
Economics and Culture: Lenin's Troubles with Nationalism
Authors: Armour Leslie
Published: May 2006

Lenin argued that nationalism should be supported against
colonialism, though ultimately subordinated to the interests of the
working class. He admitted there were linguistic and cultural issues,
but associated the nation state chiefly with capitalist economics.
Contrasts Lenin′s historical argument with that of Jacob Gould Schurman
who emphasized linguistic and cultural sources of nationalism, and looks
at both in the light of basically different kinds of nationalism which
developed in Prussia, Caucasian Georgia and the Balkans. In all three
cases, the nations have their origins earlier than Lenin supposed, and
linguistic and cultural issues are mixed with economic issues in all of
them. In at least some cases, nationalism poses insoluble problems
unless it is subordinated to a federalist structure.
What Went Wrong with Communism?
Authors: Brenner Y.S.
Published: May 2006

Marx expected the socialist revolution to take place in a highly
industrialized society. In his theory the creation of the industrial
society was the “historical task” of Capitalism. The
“historical task” of Socialism was the equitable
distribution of the fruits of industrialization. This sequence was
inherent in his dialectical and historical materialism. For this reason,
argues that it would be rash to pass judgement on Socialism in the light
of the Russian experience. The Russian experience may well have been a
“special case”.
Communism: Lenin's High Efficiency Dream and a Miniature in China
Authors: Wenxian Zhang
Published: May 2006

The international Communist movement is experiencing great
turbulence. Some Western media state with certainty that Lenin′s dream
has come to an end, but Chinese practice has proved the contrary
conclusion. High efficiency is characteristic of and intrinsic to
Communism. The productivity of labour is the most important thing in the
success of a new social system. Socialist business has just begun and
will create much higher productivity than capitalism.
The Russian Church and Its Future
Authors: O'Neil Daniel J.
Published: May 2006

Examines Russian Orthodoxy, focusing on its historical background,
religious ethos, institutionalization and dogmatic affirmation.
Evaluates the record of the Russian Church during the Communist period
and speculates about its future. Cites the limitations of Russian
Orthodoxy in performing the “priestly” and
“prophetic” functions. Finally, given the similarities of
Russian Orthodoxy and Roman Catholicism, recommends “Uniate
option” for the contemporary Russian Church. Suggests that such an
option would strengthen Russian Orthodoxy and compensate for those
factors that made it so ineffective during the Marxist‐Leninist period.
The Making of an American Communist: William Z. Foster
Authors: O'Donnell L.A.
Published: May 2006

Analyses the career of William Zebulon Foster, a leader of the
American Communist Party, and a three‐time candidate for President of
the United States under that party′s banner. Foster rose from the slums
of Philadelphia to earn the reputation of an accomplished labour
organizer and then to embrace communist ideology. The poverty of his
immigrant parents, and the endless series of dreary jobs he was forced
to enter, beginning at age ten, nurtured his rebellious spirit and
cultivated an antagonism towards capitalism. Emphasizes the evolution of
his ideology from socialism to syndicalism and finally Marxism‐Leninism.
William Foster found his vocation as an organizer of trade unions on
behalf of the Communist movement. He was a prolific propagandist for and
historian of the Party. Never deterred by tortuous twists and turns of
the party line, he followed it faithfully and inflexibly until his death
in Moscow in 1961.
The Future of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics: A Confucian View
Authors: Sun Li‐teh
Published: May 2006

A Soviet type of “shock therapy” is not likely to take
place in China since a gradual economic reform has already improved the
overall economic conditions. Argues that, for further economic
development, however, the Chinese communists must recognize two basic
facts: (1) Chinese communism has already fulfilled its historical
mission by expelling foreign imperialism and domestic feudalism; (2)
Marxism and Leninism are of foreign origin. This recognition is able to
pave the way for a final adoption of the Taiwanese model of economic
development, which is based on the ideas developed by Sun Yat‐Sen, who
had never stopped to insist that modernization should not abandon the
Chinese tradition, especially Confucianism.
N.W. Mordvinov (1754–1845): Father of Economic Freedoms in Russia?
Authors: Alexandrin Glen
Published: May 2006

Gives an account of Count N.S. Mordvinov (1754‐1845) who was a
Minister of Economics, an economist and a scholar of Adam Smith′s
economics who effectively politicized Smithian economic ideas and the
need for economic freedom in Tsarist Russia. His advice, given to Tsar
Alexander I and to Tsar Nicholas I, was embodied in legislation but did
not appear to have administrative impact. Although the economic ideas of
Adam Smith had a political dimension alien to the objectives of the
Russian rulers, the Smithian values, as promoted by Count Mordvinov and
embodied in his written works, having been imported as early as
1760‐1770, have not previously been discussed and debated in the
twentieth century.