The New Political Capitalism (How Businesses and Societies Can Thrive in a Deeply Politicized World)

The New Political Capitalism bridges the gap between the reality of the relationship between politics and business, and the lack of familiarity of the business community, even at the most senior levels, with political thinking. The book demonstrates how businesses that develop effective political antennae can enhance their performance in the emerging age of Political Capitalism.

This new book challenges the notion that business is, or can ever be, 'apolitical'. It argues that politics – the visible reflection of social values and cultural trends – shapes the environment in which business operates. More and more people are becoming politicised in the sense that they have strong views about how our societies should function – and the role that business must play. Socio-political issues increasingly affect purchasing decisions with the marketplace becoming one way in which citizens express their political identity – the rise of what some have called 'political consumerism'. Markets themselves are politically constructed, and investors increasingly focus on corporations' political positions – be they environmental or societal.

Drawing upon extensive research and case studies, this book weaves together socio-political trends with business purpose, strategy and operations. From why businesses exist at all, to the importance of diversity, and what a company stands for, both culturally and politically, The New Political Capitalism dissects the new opportunities available for those businesses that can develop effective political antennae.