ISS 2026: From Creative Destruction to Creative Response

From 1 to 4 July 2026, the Bureau d’économie théorique et appliquée and the University of Strasbourg will host, at the Faculty of Economics and Management, the 21st biennial conference of the International Joseph A. Schumpeter Society (ISS), to mark the 40th anniversary of this international learned society dedicated to the study of innovation, entrepreneurship and economic transformation.

Under the theme ‘Capitalism and Democracy: Paradigm Shifts and Creative Transformations’, this edition will bring together researchers from around the world to address major contemporary challenges: the ecological transition, artificial intelligence, reindustrialisation, inequality, technological sovereignty and the evolution of public policy.

Building on the legacy of the economist Joseph Schumpeter and his concept of “ creative destruction ”, the discussions will examine the role of innovation in the profound changes our societies are undergoing. Whilst creative destruction is the driving force behind economic development, it is also important to emphasise the significance of a “creative response” that enables societies, institutions and organisations to adapt to change. In the face of today’s climate, digital and geopolitical challenges, this line of thinking seems more relevant than ever.

The academic sessions will focus in particular on the transition to carbon neutrality, the impact of artificial intelligence on the economy and society, transformative innovation policies, industrial dynamics, and the relationship between capitalism, democracy and sustainable development.

Several leading international figures have been invited to speak at this conference, including the Nobel Laureate in Economics Joseph Stiglitz (online).

By organising this international event in Strasbourg, BETA reaffirms its role as a leading think tank in the fields of innovation, the knowledge economy and public policy, whilst helping to fuel debate on the economic and societal transformations of the future.

See also: Savoir(s) – University of Strasbourg: L’innovation peut-elle encore servir le bien commun ? (in French only)