Miron Mushkat and Roda Mushkat
The principal aim of this paper is to bring into analytical focus the institutional context of the escalation in cross‐border pollution in the Hong Kong/Pearl River Delta region.
Abstract
Purpose
The principal aim of this paper is to bring into analytical focus the institutional context of the escalation in cross‐border pollution in the Hong Kong/Pearl River Delta region.
Design/methodology/approach
The interplay between economic and ecological forces is highlighted against the backdrop of coordination failures in a loosely structured organizational setting.
Findings
It is apparent that powerful bottom‐up forces of economic integration are overwhelming the embryonic machinery hesitantly erected to minimize their adverse effects.
Practical implications
The heavily decentralized model relied upon to manage complex relationships within the Pearl River Delta region needs to be reassessed, with lessons drawn from other parts of the world, notably Europe, which is also confronting friction between the centre and periphery.
Originality/value
The underlying socio‐physical dynamics, fragile organizational façade and crucial policy choices are outlined in a systematic fashion, with intricate linkages carefully pinpointed.
Details
Keywords
Miron Mushkat and Roda Mushkat
The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the complex processes involving state sacrifice of essential values, including a measure of sovereignty, in return for economic…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the complex processes involving state sacrifice of essential values, including a measure of sovereignty, in return for economic benefits which are substantial but not to a point of overshadowing all else.
Design/methodology/approach
The research agenda is addressed by reviewing systematically the extensive theoretical and empirical academic literature on China's entry into the World Trade Organization and drawing appropriate conclusions about how the issue at hand should ideally be approached at this juncture.
Findings
Useful observations emerge regarding the classification of relevant factors, conceptual integration, analytical responses to problems arising in the context of accelerating economic integration across the globe and realistic model building.
Practical implications
Insights generated may enhance understanding of the interplay between the forces of globalization and nationalism and lead to a more enlightened management of the ensuing tension.
Originality/value
Critical assessment undertaken may pave the way for a less segmented and more grounded academic work on the subject.
Details
Keywords
The influence of government planning on the public sector can be seen in the attempt to increase efficiency, which often overlooks more distant objectives. The most usual…
Abstract
The influence of government planning on the public sector can be seen in the attempt to increase efficiency, which often overlooks more distant objectives. The most usual strategic policy has been one of incrementalism — a policy of small‐scale change introduced gradually. The claims of this and rival strategies like “branching” and “inventive” operations are examined, and the limitations of the incremental approach made apparent. This needs extensive knowledge of policy effects over time, and there is a possibility of suddenly‐revealed “threshold” or “sleeper” effects. A multivariate model is presented, and the effects of different variables explored. Either more sophisticated incrementalism is needed, or it is shown to be worthwhile to follow more dynamic new initiatives.