For decades, neoliberalism has shaped our economic and political systems, championing deregulation, privatization, and the primacy of free markets. But as inequality deepens, environmental crises escalate, and public trust in institutions erodes, we find ourselves at the cusp of a new ideological shift. Is business positioned to evolve beyond the short-term gains of neoliberalism and drive sustainable, equitable progress? Or will it remain entrenched in structures that prioritize profit over societal well-being?

This course equips students with the critical thinking and strategic analysis skills needed to navigate this evolving landscape. Through case studies, debates, and hands-on analysis, students will deepen their understanding of business’s role in shaping the future—preparing them for leadership and management roles where they will be expected to engage in high-level discussions with senior executives, make complex decisions in uncertain environments, and drive meaningful change. As the rules of capitalism are rewritten, future business leaders must decide: What comes after neoliberalism, and can business be part of the solution?

Leading the course are Andy Ruben, Walmart’s first Chief Sustainability Officer and Trove founder, who testified before Congress as an expert in business and sustainability, and Sasha Radovich, a sustainability leader with experience at the United Nations, Amazon, and Gap Inc., and an adjunct professor at Berkeley. Their real-world insights will bring depth, perspective, and practical understanding to the complex challenges at the intersection of business, policy, and sustainability. show less