Why people should work together to shape the economy

Economist Mariana Mazzucato argues in a Nature article published on June 15, 2026, that communities must actively shape economic decisions rather than passively accept their outcomes. She proposes that citizens and local governments should have a greater role in directing investment and innovation, moving beyond traditional market-driven approaches. Mazzucato highlights the need for a "mission-oriented" economy, where public sector goals guide private sector activity towards societal benefits, citing examples like the development of renewable energy technologies or public health initiatives. She criticizes the current economic model for often prioritizing short-term financial gains over long-term societal well-being and sustainability. The article advocates for new forms of governance that empower diverse stakeholders to co-create economic strategies, fostering a more inclusive and equitable distribution of wealth and opportunity. This approach, Mazzucato contends, is essential for addressing complex global challenges such as climate change and social inequality.