The Kaleidoscope of International Business, Democracy and Us

This seminar draws on three recent papers.

The first , covering the development of the International Business subject domain, traces its development from a “boardroom view “ to a “birds eye view” focusing on “Grand Challenges” and the role of multinational enterprises (MNEs).

The role of the MNE and democracy is the subject of the second paper, analysing the association of democracy with openness in trade, investment, and entrepreneurship, but emphasising the potential of producer – driven interests to capture the global system.

“Who is us?” is a fascinating perspective on the objectives of international business policy . Who should the beneficiaries of such policies be? The welfare of the citizens located in the home country or the maximisation of the assets under the control of those citizens, wherever these are located? How can national policies operate in a globalised, if fractured world economy?

The three papers together give an insight into IB theory, the strategy of the MNE, and national policies in a troubled, fractured world economy.

Professor Peter J Buckley OBE FBA

Peter J Buckley is 200th Anniversary Chair in International Business, Alliance Manchester Business School, University of Manchester, Visiting Professor at Hong Kong Metropolitan University and University of Queensland Business School.

He was President of the Academy of International Business (2002-04) and Chair of the European International Business Academy (2009-2012).

Fellow of the Academy of International Business and a recipient of the British Academy of Management Medal for Research and the JIBS Platinum Medal for Scholarship. Appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) 2012 and elected a Fellow of the British Academy (FBA), 2014.

There will be refreshments and a chance to network from 15:00.

Please be aware that photography and videography will be taking place during this event. By registering for and attending the event, you grant Alliance Manchester Business School permission to capture and use photos and videos of your likeness for promotional purposes. If you prefer not to have your image used in any promotional materials, please inform a member of staff upon your arrival.

Paper titles:

“The Kaleidoscope of International Business – The Past, Current, and Future Development of Theory”. Journal of Business Research 189,115205, 2025.

“The Democratic Deficit of the Global Dominance of Producer-Driven Society” Management International Review. 65(1): 3-19. 2025.

“Who Is Us?” Revisited: Robert Reich’s Challenge in A Globalized World”. Journal of International Business Policy. 8 (2): 194-202. 2025.