Mission Economy: A Moonshot Guide to Changing Capitalism

Mariana Mazzucato calls for a moonshot approach to address capitalism's problems,rethinking government's role and recovering public purpose to create a more optimistic future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 27 January 2022
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

One of the most influential economists in the world, Mariana Mazzucato has been at the forefront of addressing some of the most pressing issues facing our society. Even before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, capitalism was struggling to find solutions to a range of complex problems, including disease, inequality, the digital divide, and the environmental crisis. Drawing inspiration from the successful moonshot programs that successfully coordinated public and private sectors on a massive scale, Mazzucato advocates for a similar level of boldness and experimentation to tackle the biggest challenges of our time.

In her book, Mission Economy, Mazzucato argues that we need to rethink the capacities and role of government within the economy and society. She suggests that we should shift our focus from short-term profits to long-term sustainability and social well-being. Moreover, she emphasizes the importance of recovering a sense of public purpose, which can be achieved by engaging citizens in decision-making processes and creating policies that prioritize the common good.

Mazzucato's ideas are gaining traction around the world, as governments and organizations recognize the need for a new economic model that prioritizes social and environmental concerns. The mission economy model encourages collaboration between public and private sectors, as well as between different stakeholders, to address complex problems and create shared value.

One of the key principles of the mission economy is the recognition of the role of government in driving innovation and investment. Mazzucato argues that government should play a more active role in funding research and development, as well as in providing incentives for businesses to adopt sustainable practices. This can include policies such as tax breaks for companies that invest in renewable energy, subsidies for sustainable agriculture, and regulations to promote fair labor practices and protect the environment.

Another important aspect of the mission economy is the focus on inequality. Mazzucato argues that the current economic system is rigged in favor of a small elite, who benefit from high profits and low taxes. This creates a vicious cycle of wealth inequality, which undermines social cohesion and economic growth. To address this, Mazzucato suggests that we should implement policies that redistribute wealth, such as progressive taxation, universal basic income, and social safety nets.

The mission economy also recognizes the importance of addressing the digital divide, which has become a major barrier to social and economic progress. Mazzucato argues that access to affordable internet and digital technologies is essential for promoting innovation, job creation, and social mobility. To address this, governments should invest in infrastructure development, provide access to education and training programs, and promote digital inclusion.

In conclusion, Mariana Mazzucato's Mission Economy offers a way out of our current economic impasse to a more optimistic future. By rethinking the capacities and role of government within the economy and society, and by promoting collaboration between public and private sectors, we can create a more sustainable and equitable economic system. The mission economy model recognizes the importance of addressing complex problems such as disease, inequality, the digital divide, and the environmental crisis, and provides a framework for creating policies that prioritize the common good. As we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, it is clear that the mission economy is the way forward.

Weight: 208g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141991689