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A Story of Law and Incentives: A Comparative Legal Understanding of Corporate Risk and Incentives in Relation to Human Rights Liability
No full textThis work examines the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), particularly corporate human rights responsibility, by telling a “story of law and incentives” in way that fosters a comparative legal understanding of corporate risks and motivational drivers. The 2008 financial crisis has shown that trustworthiness on the part of corporations is indispensable for the sustainable well-being of society and corporate success alike. This reality mandates assessing the current legal and economic system and the incentives that it induces for corporations to ensure that the ‘social contract’ is not unconditional anymore, but rather encourages, induces, and eventually rewards trustworthiness. For this purpose, this work analyses the behavioral economics of legal liability enforcement as an exogenous measure of CSR implementation. The goal is to assess to what extent liability rules across different legal systems are incentive-compatible and affect corporate behavior as predicated under the ‘deterrence theory.’ It fills a troublesome gap in the literature that has not yet tested the ‘deterrence theory’ for legal CSR enforcement.
This analysis shows that liability schemes in their current design and structure do not always influence corporate behavior in the desired way, but instead can generate ‘hidden costs’ of legal enforcement and therefore yield non-monotonic and suboptimal compliance results. Applying psychological game theory, it is concluded that, under specific legal regimes (here, corporate tort liability under the U.S. Alien Tort Statute (ATS)), incentives induced by liability enforcement are limited since intrinsic motivation is ‘crowded out.’ It is argued that law is not the only driver for CSR compliance and that it can be effectively complemented by economic self-interest and particularly social norms as endogenous compliance mechanisms. Underlying is the discussion about the tradeoff between personal trust and institutional trust as well as intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in the context of CSR compliance mechanisms.
In an effort to map corporate legal risk before domestic courts and corresponding incentives, this work conducts a comparative legal analysis identifying key commonalities and differences between liability schemes for corporate human rights violations in the U.S. and selected European jurisdictions, namely France and Belgium. A civil-criminal divide can be observed, with the U.S. providing for civil human rights redress and European jurisdictions allowing for a ‘partie civile’ claim attached to the principal criminal proceedings. Rather than siding with existing scholarship that those differences are merely a country-specific “translation” into the “language” of the respective legal system, this dissertation illustrates that those differences arise for far more complex reasons.
The question addressed focuses on why almost all major litigation against corporations for their overseas human rights performance has been brought in U.S. courts under the ATS, rather than in the courts of their European counterparts. It is concluded that aside from substantive law, differences in procedures (in terms of civil and criminal liability) and legal culture (in terms of a common law and civil law tradition) implicate corporate risk, the victim’s litigation preferences, and the overall effectiveness of the respective liability system in terms of deterrence. A critical look at the apparent supremacy of the ATS in human rights litigation against corporations shows that its immediate appeal to victims’ plaintiffs does not match-up with the long-term deterrence effect in behavioral economics terms. Thus, showcasing the landmark case of Kiobel v. Royal Dutch Petroleum Co. before the U.S. Supreme Court confirms the need for a strict deference to the criminal or civil nature of the proceedings, rather than conflating both concepts interchangeably and at will (as has often been done in ATS jurisprudence). Conflating civil and criminal elements has unintended consequences which undermine the incentive-compatibility of corporate liability under the ATS. Eventually, a paradox emerges: Whereas the European approach is in concept designed to yield incentive-compatible compliance results and is thus superior to the ATS structure, it in practice surrenders to the American approach with its unparalleled procedural rules, which are emblematic of the litigious character of American society.
The overall goal of this work has been to move beyond pre-set notions of what lawyers believe does and does not work and present a fresh perspective on the doctrine of corporate liability informed by an empirical approach grounded in behavioral economics. The intent is to create a dialogue and provide a framework to assess the legal order per se (“de jure condito”) in the context of corporate human rights liability that informs normative innovation (“de jure condendo”) for more effective, i.e., incentive-compatible, liability regulation and enforcement in the field of CSR
Il principio compositivo della variazione su tema nel romanzo del Novecento
No full textIl modello formale della variazione su tema, celebre soprattutto per il suo impiego come principio di composizione musicale - in particolare per gli sviluppi ad esso apportati da artisti quali Bach, Beethoven o Schönberg - tuttavia non esaurisce le sue potenzialità espressive esclusivamente nell’ambito di quest’arte.
Il principio di ritornare a più riprese su un determinato soggetto, per rimodularlo, però, in maniera ogni volta leggermente diversa, in quanto corrispondente ad una sorta di forma mentis «universale» - come osserva Françoise Escal -, trova applicazione, da una parte, anche come metodo di indagine filosofica (Husserl si serve della “libera variazione” in quanto metodo per sviluppare la cosiddetta Wesenserchauung, la visione dell’essenza); dall’altra, esso è riscontrabile anche in ambiti artistici diversi dalla musica, ad esempio nella pittura e nella letteratura.
Nel romanzo, in particolare, l’impiego del principio compositivo della variazione, implicando la presentazione di uno stesso tema o motivo di base da diverse prospettive (che, in tal caso, possono corrispondere al punto di vista dei diversi personaggi, oppure alla diversa distanza temporale assunta rispetto alla narrazione di un medesimo avvenimento), sembra configurarsi come un espediente idealmente funzionale al conseguimento dell’obiettivo conoscitivo principale di quest’arte, improntata allo svelamento della sostanziale relatività di tutte le cose
Computer Simulation of Biological Systems
No full textThis thesis investigates two biological systems using atomistic modelling and molecular dynamics simulation.
The work is focused on: (a) the study of the interaction between a segment of a DNA molecule and a functionalized surface; (b) the dynamical modelling of protein tau, an intrinsically disordered protein.
We briefly describe here the two problems; for their detailed introduction we refer respectively to chapter DNA and chapter TAU.
The interest in the study of the adsorption of DNA on functionalized surfaces is related to the considerable effort that in recent years has been devoted in developing technologies for faster and cheaper genome sequencing.
In order to sequence a DNA molecule, it has to be extracted from the cell where it is stored (e.g. the blood cells). As a consequence any genomic analysis requires a purification process in order to remove from the DNA molecule proteins,
lipids and any other contaminants. The extraction and purification of DNA from biological samples is hence the first step towards an efficient and cheap genome sequencing.
Using the chemical and physical properties of DNA it is possible to generate an attractive interaction between this macromolecule and a properly treated surface. Once positioned on the surface, the DNA can be more easily purified.
In this work we set up a detailed molecular model of DNA interacting with a surface functionalized with amino silanes. The intent is to investigate the free energy of adsorption of small DNA oligomers as a function of the pH and ionic strength of the solution.
The tau protein belongs to the category of Intrinsically Disordered Proteins (IDP), which in their native state do not have an average stable structure and fluctuate between many conformations.
In its physiological state, tau protein helps nucleating and stabilizing the microtubules in the axons of the neurons. On the other hand, the same tau - in a pathological aggregation - is involved in
the development of the Alzheimer disease.
IDPs do not have a definite 3D structure, therefore their dynamical simulation cannot start from a known list of atomistic positions, like a protein data bank file.
We first introduce a procedure to find an initial dynamical state for a generic IDP, and we apply it to the tau protein.
We then analyze the dynamical properties of tau, like the propensity of residues to form temporary secondary structures like beta-sheets or alpha-helices
Il genius loci e l'architettura sostenibile: l'ambiente naturale e costruito della Val di Gresta
Get PDFLa tesi di dottorato “Il genius loci e l’architettura sostenibile. L’ambiente naturale e costruito della Val di Gresta” attiene alla definizione di una metodologia di studio efficace a descrivere i caratteri ricorrenti in un ambito territoriale omogeneo, analizzando il territorio nelle diverse scale da quella dell’insediamento a quella dell’edificio, a quella della tecnologia.
Lo studio non doveva solo comprendere il paesaggio in tutte le sue componenti ma si è voluto definire i principi concettuali di trasformazione passati, attuali e futuri, e soprattutto questi ultimi al fine di riattivare un processo congruente e compatibile con al naturalità del territorio, con l’economia e la cultura del luogo.
Nel corso del lavoro è stato analizzato il paesaggio della valle di Gresta, ove si è registrato un forte declino della diversità del paesaggio, con conseguente semplificazione del mosaico paesistico e la riduzione delle caratteristiche identitarie strutturali e culturali.
E’ stata rilevata infatti la scomparsa di elementi strutturali caratterizzanti, come i terrazzamenti, la modificazione nella dimensione degli insediamenti e l’alterazione formale e tecnologica degli edifici.
Le diverse sollecitazioni esterne che inducono le evoluzioni in un territorio sono continue, quindi è evidente che anche il processo di trasformazione deve proseguire, ma in rapporto simbiotico con l’esistente, come un tempo, dove le varie modificazioni si stratificavano nell’architettura e nel paesaggio.
L’ analisi del paesaggio naturale e costruito e delle architetture della valle è quindi servita per comprendere l’evoluzione e la trasformazione nel corso dei secoli del rapporto di equilibrio stabilitosi tra artificio e contesto, analizzando le modificazioni avvenute alle diverse scale.
La conservazione e valorizzazione del paesaggio sono il fine del processo di conoscenza intrapreso ma anche l’inizio di una sensibilizzazione alle politiche ambientali e di trasformazioni del costruito in cui assieme alle permanenze più o meno integre del sistema storico che ha caratterizzato i luoghi nel corso del tempo si attuano delle modificazioni congruenti legate ad attribuzioni di significato che contribuiscono a mantenere e ri-definire l’identità culturale del territorio
L'ethos della presenza: la ricerca filosofica di Ernesto De Martino
No full textLa tesi analizza il concetto demartiniano di ethos trascendentale del trascendimento. L'analisi si è divisa in due parti: la prima di carattere storico-filosofico, ha ricostruito la storia di questo concetto a partire dalle prime opere di De Martino sino alla produzione più matura. La seconda parte, di carettere più teoretico, tenta di chiarificare il concetto di ethos del trascendimento, anche attraverso la prova della critica e altresì attraverso il confronto con autori e correnti filosofiche cui De Martino ha guardato
The Legal Recognition of Same-Sex Unions in the EU: Can the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union make the Difference?
No full textThe issue of same-sex unions in the EU has been differently addressed by Member States. From same-sex marriage to non-recognition, the situation in the EU poses a series of questions related to the principle of nondiscrimination and to the right of free movement for EU citizens. However, all Member States are bound by the same human rights obligations. Among the legal instruments adopted in the context of fundamental rights protection, the now binding force of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU represents a novelty introduced by the Treaty of Lisbon. This research investigates two aspects of the issue related to same-sex unions’ recognition between the period 2008-2011. First, by analyzing the case law at different spheres of adjudication, the dissertation examines whether same-sex unions’ legal recognition constitutes an obligation Member States are today obliged to fulfill. Second, it explores judicial orientations in relation to the claims brought before them by same-sex couples, explaining the reasons behind an apparently deferential attitude toward the legislator. As discussed in this thesis, there exists a duty to recognize, thus ‘indifference’ of Member States constitutes a violation of fundamental rights. Accordingly this research clarifies how the ‘duty to’ approach, if compared to ‘a right to’ approach, might better explain the answer given by the judiciary to the claims posed by LGBTI people in the context of same-sex unions legal recognition. In particular, this thesis contends that while it is possible to frame the argument of same-sex unions in terms of states’ obligations, it would not be desirable to establish a single rule concerning the legal recognition of same-sex unions
Fragments of spaces along the roads: recycling deleted areas
Get PDF“[…]Landscape” means an area, as perceived by people, whose character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or human factors; […]Acknowledging that the landscape is an important part of the quality of life for people everywhere: in urban areas and in the countryside, in degraded areas as well as in areas of high quality, in areas recognised as being of outstanding beauty as well as everyday areas[…]”.
The starting point of this research is the innovative definition of landscape, given by the “European Landscape Convention”, that draws the attention to the need of:
- examining the territory as a spatial and temporal continuity;
- considering the territory transformations as a value;
- giving equal dignity to ruined territory, refusing the idea that only beautiful landscape deserve to be protected.
Among the several and diverse European studies on infrastructure and landscape relation, the research focuses on marginal areas created by the infrastructure for mobility (road and highway) in the landscape. These areas are lacking a clearly defined function, they are not anymore part of the landscape, but they have not become part of the infrastructure. These areas are defined as infrastructural refuses.
The attention is shifted from the design of the road and from the aesthetic of mobility to the new spaces created by the infrastructure in the landscape.
Moreover, the research tries to analyze the infrastructural refuses only ex-post, when these spaces have already been created by the construction and use of a road, or theoretically created in-fieri by an infrastructure project that has overlooked these areas, forgetting to design them, or simply not taking into account their existence.
The first part of the research is devoted to define the identity of the infrastructural refuse through the critical analysis of the main theories of the protagonists of the international debate supported by the identification of literature related to the topic. The infrastructural refuse is then described through analytical tools (morphology and perception) that show the effects of infrastructural transformation focussing mainly on mobility infrastructure transformation in Trentino Alto-Adige. The case study analyzed is the trunk road 12 on the stretch called Tangenziale di Trento, and more specifically the transformation caused by the junctions close to urban areas. The Tangenziale is a great artery of traffic that often cuts through the surrounding areas leading to real marginal areas.
The research then proceeds to the definition of refuse as a value and tries to highlight its potential for transformation mainly by analyzing the strategy of recycling. Different types of re-use of infrastructural refuses are described: the artistic-temporary use, the daily spontaneous use by the population, and finally the illegal use.
The research analyzes the mobility infrastructural refuses: outlining possible transformations, design, re-inventions; illustrating the unexpressed features of the places; re-drawing with different connotation signs that have lost their original meaning; eventually reaching the “operatività dello scarto”. Negative actions like abandon, refuse, waste can become occasions to re-shape and re-think the landscape.
The results of the research show the possibility to re-think the infrastructural refuse spaces as a reserves of soil, suggest alternatives to the mentality of the compensation and mitigation, calling for the evolution of the protocols of mobility infrastructure design
Europa als politisches Konkurrenzthema zwischen Christ- und Sozialdemokraten in Italien und Deutschland von 1945 bis zum Beginn der 60er Jahre
Get PDFDie vorliegende Arbeit beschreibt die Konkurrenz der Christ- und Sozialdemokraten sowie der Sozialisten um Europa sowohl in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland als auch in Italien. Vor dem Hintergrund des aufziehenden Kalten Krieges und der anschließenden Konsolidierung beider politischen Systeme wird untersucht, wie sich die Parteien zur europäischen Integration positioniert haben, welche europapolitischen Strategien verfolgt wurden und welches Bild diese von Europa hatten. Dabei werden benachbarte Politikfelder und Wortfelder des Begriffs Europa vor dem Hintergrund der internationalen, nationalen sowie der jeweiligen innerparteilichen Situation untersucht. Die Studie legt dar, wie und wieso sich die Parteien gegeneinander positionierten und im Laufe der Zeit auch annäherten. Der Beginn des Zeitraums ist dabei das Ende des Zweiten Weltkriegs und somit der Beginn der jeweiligen politischen Systeme. Das Ende wird in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland mit dem Ende der Ära Adenauer gewählt, in Italien mit der Regierung des ersten centro-sinistra unter Aldo Moro
Early attachment behavior in mother-infant dyad: a study on Maternal Physical Engagement
No full textThe purpose of this study, is to compare the extent and types of physical proximity and contact between mothers and infants across different countries during the early child stage of life, and to discuss how those activities are modulated by contrasting cultural styles. We have compared the way in which mothers are physical engaged with their children in different societies, to investigate similarities and differences in the physical and proximal maternal behaviors, selecting 5 different countries belonging to the Western (Italy and USA), Eastern (Korea and Japan) and Developing countries (Kenya). Moreover, the research analyzed how those early maternal activities are related to the child’s subsequent development, examining how experiences during early life could affect his future growth. The results are discussed in light of the culture-universal as well as culture-specific aspects of parenting. Three studies have been developed: the first examines and compares the ways in which mothers physically engage their very young infants in Italy and the USA, and asks whether they differ in the proximal and physical response to infant vocalizations; the second proposes a wider analysis of the maternal physical engagement across different countries, and investigates similarities and differences in the physical and proximal maternal behaviors in countries belonging to the Western (Italy and USA), Eastern (Korea and Japan) and Developing countries (Kenya); the third evaluates the influence of maternal physical engagement on the development of infant play, adaptive behavior, and child emotion availability, in the Italian sample. Finally, in the Appendix, is reported a study on a particular form of attachment behavior presented in mammalian (the Transport Response (TR)), in mice genetically modified who show deficits in attachment behavior. The study corroborates the importance of investigating the genetic basis of attachment behavior in order to better understand the affiliative relationship in higher mammals
Teorie dell'argomentazione e processopenale: un'analisi comparata delle principali teorie argomentative contemporanee con profili applicativi al processo penale
No full textQuesto lavoro aspira a fornire un apporto ricognitivo e critico allo studio delle principali teorie argomentative contemporanee, cercando di individuare un criterio di ordine.
La crisi del presupposto scientista e del modello logico del positivismo giuridico ha favorito lâelaborazione di nuovi strumenti di indagine dellâargomentazione: di quella pratica in genere e di quella giuridica in particolare.
Dopo una rapida rassegna della evoluzione delle proposte teoriche gemmate dalla «svolta argomentativa» negli anni Cinquanta, si intende focalizzare lâattenzione sugli studi contemporanei dellâargomentazione e del ragionamento giuridico più rappresentativi: la problematologia di Michel Meyer, la teoria linguistico-interazionale di Christian Plantin, la pragma-dialettica di Frans Van Eemeren e la neo-dialettica di Douglas Walton. La tesi che si argomenta è che sussistano i presupposti per una riduzione ad ordine del variegato quadro degli studi di argomentazione: la via è quella del recupero del concetto fondamentale della retorica di matrice aristotelica, ripensato alla luce degli studi di retorica forense di Francesco Cavalla e di alcuni suoi allievi.
Ciascuna sezione è dedicata alla precisazione teorica della tesi argomentativa e alle conseguenze sul piano della scienza del diritto. Lâanalisi è completata in ogni sezione dallâindagine sulle possibili applicazioni della tesi nel campo del processo penale e dellâesercizio della professione forense