Rethinking the informal and formal economies: Measures, management, and metamorphosis

How can we use new measurements and management mindsets to recognize the economic value of the informal economy in order to create a more caring and sustainable world? How do we create real social and human wealth across the globe? What gets in the way? What are the key drivers that enable a society to create and support the development of the full human capacities of every individual throughout the whole human life course? How do we measure these drivers? What are the implications for both the formal and informal economic sectors as we move from a manufacturing to a knowledge/service economy? This All-Academy Theme Symposium re-examines the mindsets and measurements that have been used to guide our assumptions and behaviors-many of which have led to the development of societies and organizations that are not capable of perpetuating themselves in the renewal of human and social capital or creation of real wealth. In today's knowledge/service economy, new forms of capital and wealth drive our society yet our measurements do not recognize these changes. We need new measures, mindsets, and values as well as a new vision for a caring, sustainable world in order to develop real human and social wealth across the globe and create a socio-economic and human system which is adaptive, efficient, and vital. Here, we bring together four thought leaders who elevate the need for change, contemplate solutions, and energize and engage the audience with open dialogue and hope.