Competition in Theory and Practice

Competition is a fact of life for firms, individuals, governments and society. But at the heart of common approaches to competition there are inherent contradictions and ambiguities. This book presents a clear exposition of classical and modern models of competition. It outlines the major economic approaches, but it also discusses the relevant aspects of the work of Darwin and Freud, and outlines alternative legal, political and psychological models. The second half of the book relates this theory to practical questions. The current competitive terrain in Europe, the USA and Japan is examined and the extent and effect of anti-competitive and monopolistic practices is assessed. Case studies are used both to illustrate theoretical points and to prompt discussion of competition theory. Throughout, the book uses and inter-disciplinary approach and challenges many of the received ideas which have inhibited business planning and economic policy-making.