Western Multinational Corporations in Latin America: Conflating Capitalisms and Institutional Dynamics of Inter-systemic Actor Exchange

This book provides an actor-centered perspective on socio-economic development and multinational corporations (MNCs) in Latin America. It develops the framework 'Conflating Capitalisms' to understand MNC-induced institutional change and its impact on local development. The empirical case study of Western MNCs in Latin America employs a sequential mixed-method design, including a large-scale elite survey and in-depth interviews with local decision-makers. It demonstrates behavioral contradiction in the host country and subsequent actor-induced institutional change, with varied developmental outcomes. The book offers insights into MNCs handling of missing complementary institutions and the institutionalization process of coordinated practices in Latin America.

Format: Hardback
Length: 381 pages
Publication date: 21 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive and thought-provoking book delves into the intricate dynamics of socio-economic development and multinational corporations (MNCs). It offers a novel actor-centered perspective, unveiling a framework called 'Conflating Capitalisms,' which provides a deep understanding of both the institutional changes induced by MNCs in their host countries and the subsequent impact on local development. Through the empirical case of Western MNCs in Latin America, the book employs a sequential mixed-method design, encompassing a large-scale elite survey on corporate behavior and in-depth, semi-structured interviews with local decision-makers to explore the institutionalization of German dual vocational training (DVT) in Brazil.

The findings presented in this book are compelling, showcasing a clear behavioral contradiction in the host country, where MNCs exhibit alien-to-the-system behavior. However, what sets this work apart is its revelation of subsequent actor-induced institutional change, resulting in diverse developmental outcomes. The book sheds light on MNCs' strategies for navigating missing complementary institutions and offers valuable insights into the institutionalization process of coordinated practices in Latin America.

This book is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and practitioners alike, as it contributes significantly to the field of development and MNCs. It offers a comprehensive analysis of the complex interplay between these two forces, providing valuable insights for policymakers, business executives, and activists seeking to promote sustainable and equitable development. By adopting an actor-centered approach, this book underscores the importance of recognizing the agency and contributions of local actors in shaping the outcomes of MNC-driven development initiatives.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in advancing the understanding of socio-economic development and MNCs. Its innovative framework, empirical research, and insightful conclusions make it a valuable contribution to the literature on these critical topics. By exploring the dynamics between MNCs, host countries, and local development, this book offers valuable insights that can help shape policies and practices aimed at promoting sustainable and inclusive growth.

Weight: 770g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030938048
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022