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From Cowboy to Astronaut: How Can We Limit the Destructive Force of the Tech Leaders’ Vision of Competition?

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  • Jade Leroueil

    (GRANEM - Groupe de Recherche Angevin en Economie et Management - UA - Université d'Angers - Institut Agro Rennes Angers - Institut Agro - Institut national d'enseignement supérieur pour l'agriculture, l'alimentation et l'environnement)

Abstract

Technological development consumes energy, depletes natural resources and generates significant carbon emissions and environmental damage (IPCC, 2023). For this reason, and in view of an effective ecological transition, it is essential that industry leaders commit themselves and steer their companies towards a development that is consistent with the challenges of sobriety. Based on qualitative research, this article aims to shed light on the contradictions between environmental objectives and sector managers' "cowboy" vision, particularly regarding their view of competition. Interviews reveal a Darwinian approach to competition, with the underlying idea that there is no monopoly. A logic of conquest, of "always more," drives this vision. This article discusses the role of democratic institutions and legal frameworks in changing tech leaders' attitudes from a Wild West vision of unlimited resources to one of responsibility to society, especially in facing environmental challenges (Boulding 1966).

Suggested Citation

  • Jade Leroueil, 2025. "From Cowboy to Astronaut: How Can We Limit the Destructive Force of the Tech Leaders’ Vision of Competition?," Post-Print hal-05146308, HAL.
    • Handle: RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05146308
    DOI: 10.1080/00213624.2025.2493530
    Note: View the original document on HAL open archive server: https://hal.science/hal-05146308v1
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Katz, Michael L., 2021. "Big Tech mergers: Innovation, competition for the market, and the acquisition of emerging competitors," Information Economics and Policy, Elsevier, vol. 54(C).
    3. David Cayla, 2022. "How the Digital Economy Challenges the Neoliberal Agenda: Lessons from the Antitrust Policies," Journal of Economic Issues, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 56(2), pages 546-553, April.
    4. Carl Shapiro & Ali Yurukoglu, 2024. "Trends in Competition in the United States: What Does the Evidence Show?," NBER Working Papers 32762, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
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