Negotiation and the Global Information Economy

Examines the way in which diplomacy and negotiations affect the global information economy.

J. P. Singh (Author)

9780521731089, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 20 November 2008

380 pages
22.8 x 15.2 x 2.3 cm, 0.62 kg

'J. P. Singh has carried negotiation analysis into the outer space of globalization and IT. This book will not only help us understand possible trajectories through that newly opened space but will help those who navigate it do so in ways that avoid accidents and turn conflicts into positive-sum outcomes.' William Zartman, Johns Hopkins University

What role do diplomacy and negotiations play in economic globalization? Many argue that great powers shape diplomacy to their advantage, others that, in a 'flat world', diplomacy helps everyone. Going beyond these polarized views, this book explores the conditions under which negotiations matter and the ways in which diplomacy is evolving in the global commercial arena. J. P. Singh argues that where there is a diffusion or decentralization of power among global actors, diplomacy can be effective in allowing the adjustment of positions so that mutual gains will result. In contrast, when there is a concentration of power, outcomes tend to benefit the strong. There will be little alteration in perception of interest, and coercion by strong powers is common. Singh's book suggests that there are possibilities for transformational problem-solving through multilateral diplomacy. Empirically, the book examines the most important information-age trade issues.

Preface
1. Introduction
2. Power, interests, and negotiations
3. Services and intellectual property: multilateral framework negotiations
4. Cultural industries and telecommunications: multilateral sectoral negotiations
5. Infrastructure pricing negotiations: evaluating alternatives when facing a significant market power
6. Electronic commerce: reaching agreement when facing market power in Internet governance and data privacy
7. Conclusion: power and governance.

Subject Areas: International relations [JPS]