Mission Economy: 8 key ideas
The core ideas of Mission Economy, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
- IDEA 1 OF 8
The moon landing offers lessons
Mazzucato uses the Apollo programme, which put humans on the moon, as a model for tackling today's problems.
She argues it showed how a clear goal could bring together government, business and science.
- IDEA 2 OF 8
Missions give direction
Mazzucato proposes that governments set bold missions, such as reducing carbon emissions or improving public health.
Missions give a clear direction for innovation and investment. Many sectors can work towards one goal.
- IDEA 3 OF 8
Government should shape markets
Instead of only fixing market failures, Mazzucato argues that governments should actively shape markets.
They can steer investment towards public goals. Direction matters as much as correction, and governments can lead it.
- IDEA 4 OF 8
States need strong capabilities
Mazzucato argues that governments need skilled staff and the ability to learn and adapt.
She criticises outsourcing, which can hollow out government expertise. Capacity must be built inside government itself.
- IDEA 5 OF 8
Business and state can partner
Mazzucato suggests partnerships in which businesses contribute to public goals.
She argues that contracts should reward companies that help achieve missions. Public money should come with public purpose. Both sides should share risks and rewards.
- IDEA 6 OF 8
Climate needs a mission approach
Mazzucato argues that tackling climate change requires mission-oriented policy across many sectors.
She describes how coordinated efforts can drive green innovation. Energy, transport and housing all need change. No single fix will be enough.
- IDEA 7 OF 8
Health shows the need for missions
Writing during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mazzucato argues that public health crises need coordinated missions.
She highlights the importance of fair access to vaccines. Cooperation saved lives. Health must not depend on wealth or nationality.
- IDEA 8 OF 8
Public purpose should guide economics
Mazzucato calls for an economy organised around public purpose.
She believes this would help societies solve big challenges together. Shared goals can unite effort across public and private sectors. It is a hopeful vision.
Get one idea like this every daySwipe through ideas, go deeper on any of them, and save the ones that matter. Free.
Read Mission Economy in the app