Geography, transparency, and institutions

Joram Mayshar*, Omer Moav, Zvika Neeman

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

38 Scopus citations

Abstract

We propose a theory in which geographic attributes explain cross-regional institutional differences in (1) the scale of the state, (2) the distribution of power within state hierarchy, and (3) property rights to land. In this theory, geography and technology affect the transparency of farming, and transparency, in turn, affects the elite's ability to appropriate revenue from the farming sector, thus affecting institutions. We apply the theory to explain differences between the institutions of ancient Egypt, southern Mesopotamia, and northern Mesopotamia, and also discuss its relevance to modern phenomena.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)622-636
Number of pages15
JournalAmerican Political Science Review
Volume111
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Aug 2017

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© American Political Science Association 2017.

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