The relationship between economics and culture is an uneasy one. Many observers view these two areas as separate or even antagonistic. In recent years, scholars have developed new models favoring either economics (in a post-Marxist approach) or culture as the foundational or encompassing aspect of national societies and international interaction, but there are also more integrationist positions. In an innovative manner, this volume brings together contributions from economists and cultural specialists who address core questions on the subject of the influence economics has on culture and the way in which culture(s) may impact economics: What are the historical and sociocultural roots of national economies? What are the effects of economic globalization and cultural transnationalism, but also of localization, on the interplay of culture and economy? How do the demands of business shape social, economic and cultural values? Do national cultures develop different, culturally specific business ethics? What do we mean by "commodification of culture", but also by "culturalization of commodities"? Which changes is the role of elite culture undergoing in an increasingly economic world?