Ego Facing Alter: How Economists have Depicted Human Interactions

The paper analyses, in a historical perspective, how economists approached human interactions. In particular it is aimed at: (a) showing that in the beginning of economic science some economists, Genovesi and Smith in particular, analysed many dimensions of human interactions, and their account of rational economic behaviour was complex and not only instrumental; (b) analysing, through the works of Pareto and Wicksteed, the main turning point in the history of economics which reduced interactions to the sole instrumental one; (c) highlight some methodological questions and doubts on how contemporary economics approaches interactions.     

The Value of Vocation. The Crucial Role of Intrinsically Motivated People in Values-based Organizations

The aim of the paper is to analyze the dynamics that arise in Values-based Organizations when ideal quality deteriorates. On the basis of Hirschman's “exit and voice” model, we analyze the mechanism that encourage the best subjects, the ones intrinsically motivated who care most about the mission and ideal quality of the organization, to leave the organization if their voice is ignored. By combining Hirschman's and a “critical mass” model, we show the possible cumulative effects caused by the “exit” of the intrinsically motivated members, which can bring the organization into a deterioration process.     

Pareto’s methodological project

A man of realities. A man of facts and calculations. A man who proceeds upon the principle that two and two are four, and nothing over, and who is not to be talked into allowing for anything over. (Charles Dickens, Hard Times, 1854)     

Health Systems and Health Reform in Europe

The organisation of health care differs widely across Europe. Access to services, financing schemes, incentives for better care, and administrative efficiency are challenges that are being dealt with in a variety of ways. Are insurance-based systems the best solution for balancing resources and services or are national health funds preferable? Does the introduction of competition fulfil high hopes for better service at lower costs? What are the relative advantages and drawbacks of central and local management of health care?     

Holliston Helping Hands

This case focuses on fraud investigation in a not‐for‐profit organization, along with an examination of governance and management control practices. The student assumes the role of an accountant investigating a possible fraud. The student is first presented with sample invoices paid by the organization that are fraught with irregularities and red flags of potential fraud. Drawing on the student's knowledge of control systems and corporate governance, the student's task is to identify suspicions of possible fraudulent transactions, identify key suspects, and develop an investigative plan. The class can also discuss recommendations to improve governance and control mechanisms to avoid future occurrences of fraud. The case is presented in three parts, and closely parallels a fraud investigation as additional information is revealed in each successive part of the case. This is much like peeling the layers of an onion which is a common way to describe the evolution of a fraud investigation. This case is based on a real fraud investigation conducted by one of the authors who was engaged by the province's Ministry of Health. Students who express disbelief about issues portrayed in the case can be reassured that these faithfully represent actual events.