National-level policymaking in Europe has slowed, stalled, or failed when it comes to critical actions for spurring economic growth. In Creating Economic Growth: Lessons for Europe, Marco Magnani argues that local leaders, would-be leaders, and citizen movers and shakers have an opportunity to rise to the occasion to implement a low-cost set of actions to spur growth.
The author challenges feelings of economic malaise that taint the next generation's dreams of prosperity. Instead he advocates the need for people to leverage traditional strengths and commit themselves to making a difference. He provides examples of newfound vitality in locales around Europe, and examines in detail his native Italy for policy weaknesses and champions of renewal.
Magnani proposes a six-point comeback strategy for citizen catalysts, business leaders, organizers, and elected officials in cities, towns, and provinces: build human and civic capital; unleash entrepreneurial creativity; spur new innovation; stimulate cultural creativity; leverage cultural diversity; and champion social mobility. This study provides a roadmap to a new dynamism and offers the theoretical and empirical evidence to prove it.
