The Corporation and the Twentieth Century: The History of American Business Enterprise

The Corporation and the Twentieth Century is a groundbreaking book that reframes the economic, institutional, and intellectual history of the managerial era.

Langlois offers an alternative perspective, arguing that managerialism rose to prominence not due to its inherent superiority but because of its contingent value in a young and rapidly developing American economy.

The structures of managerialism solidified their dominance during times of crisis, such as war and depression, when market-supporting institutions weakened.

However, by the end of the twentieth century, these institutions reemerged, shifting advantage toward entrepreneurial and market-driven modes of organization.

This comprehensive and nuanced account holds significant implications for contemporary debates about industrial and antitrust policies and the role of the corporation in the twenty-first century.

Don't miss out on this must-read book that will challenge your understanding of the managerial era and its impact on modern society.