Konferenz | Relational Pathways to a Global Economy

Welcome to the 4th Relational Economics Conference at ISM University of Management and Economics in Vilnius!

Disruptive developments in economy, politics, and society have become a hallmark of the early 21st century. Economic inequalities have risen in spite of scattered governmental efforts. Illiberal tendencies and the rise of authoritarian regimes on a global scale have complicated sustained efforts in terms of diversity and inclusion but similarly hampered ambitious climate action. Moreover, business models and labor markets come under pressure as a consequence of rapid technological change. The complexity of these issues has been thoroughly addressed under the name of grand challenges. Their mutual reinforcement is further stressed in the literature on the polycrisis. However, recent research comes short in addressing the inherently relational nature of these challenges. Their complexity arises from the specific interaction of polyvalent system logics. Hence, solution approaches that remain within a paradigm of equilibria may not suffice.

So far, relational economics has focused on presenting an alternative framework for understanding and explaining global value creation, economic organization, cultural complexity, leadership and management. We believe that the challenges outlined above present a serious testing ground for a relational approach in the social sciences. To prove itself useful, it must be put to the test in the face of central challenges of our times.

Therefore, this conference aims to provide a relational perspective on contemporary challenges such as the formation of new global value creation networks, digitalization, global governance or the New Authoritarianism. It seeks to encourage scholars to apply relational perspectives in order to suggest practical solutions. The goal is to create a platform that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration on contemporary challenges.

Our ambition is to create a space for interdisciplinary exchange, where different perspectives can meet, challenge each other, and inspire new ways of thinking about the future of economies and societies.

You can find the conference programme here