INSTITUTIONAL REGULATION OF ECONOMIC GROWTH IN SMALL EU COUNTRIES IN THE CONTEXT OF GLOBALIZATION AND DIGITALIZATION

Abstract

The institutional-sociological approach views the economy as a system in which the relationships between economic entities are shaped by economic and non-economic factors. Technical and economic factors play an exceptional role in this system. The concept of 'institution' is interpreted very broadly and includes the state, corporations, trade unions, competition, monopolies, taxes, sustainable ways of thinking and legal norms. Those who subscribe to the institutional approach are united by a characteristic methodological principle: an expansive interpretation of the subject of economic theory, otherwise known as the interdisciplinary approach. Unlike the classical school, this school of economic thought focuses not on the processes of production and circulation, but on the system of economic organisation and management, as well as social and historical aspects. According to its proponents, the economy is a playing field. The final outcome of this 'game' is determined by the 'institutions', or parameters, that exist within it. By adjusting these parameters, it is possible to influence the behaviour of the 'players' (who make economic decisions independently). Using the example of the Baltic states and other small European economies, the authors use neo-institutional theory to substantiate the problems associated with the macroeconomic development of small countries. This is because the conditions for economic growth have changed, with intangible costs becoming the most important and determining factor in the development of many EU countries.