Publisher's Synopsis
Since 1980, there have been fundamental changes in the relationship between the state and industry. With the aid of economic theory, the author critically examines the ways in which public law has been adapted to this task. The book provides a systematic overview of the theory and forms of social and economic regulation. In particular, it explores: Why governments regulate, for which two theoretical frameworks exist - "public interest" theories (regulation aims to improve social and economic welfare) and "economic" theories (regulation aims to satisfy the demands of private interest).