Institutions versus Geography: Subnational Evidence from the United States

Author/Editor:

Alma Romero-Barrutieta ; Eric V. Clifton

Publication Date:

July 1, 2006

Electronic Access:

Free Download. Use the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this PDF file

Disclaimer: This Working Paper should not be reported as representing the views of the IMF.The views expressed in this Working Paper are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the IMF or IMF policy. Working Papers describe research in progress by the author(s) and are published to elicit comments and to further debate

Summary:

Empirical studies of the impact of geography and institutions on growth and development at the international level have become common place, but the high degree of abstraction at that level has led to calls for subnational studies. This paper examines these issues for a region of the United States, Appalachia, where the specific factors at play are identified and measured thus obviating the need for instrumental variable techniques. The evidence suggests that initial conditions, including both geography and institutions, are very important for economic development, having significant effects lasting hundreds of years.

Series:

Working Paper No. 2006/169

Subject:

Estimation techniques Institutional arrangements for revenue administration Personal income Poverty Spatial models

English

Publication Date:

July 1, 2006

ISBN/ISSN:

9781451864298/1018-5941

Stock No:

WPIEA2006169

Pages:

26

Please address any questions about this title to publications@imf.org