Ethnicity and Development: Addressing the Gaps in New Institutional Economics

Ethnicity and Development examines the impact of ethnic fragmentation on nations' success or failure, using case studies of Bangladesh and Pakistan to challenge the New Institutional Economics (NIE) narrative. It argues that L/LMICs need to build national cohesion on a foundation of horizontal and vertical equity, and examines other novel issues such as self-determination and the distinction between natural and constructed nations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 78 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Ethnicity and Development delves into the profound impact of ethnic fragmentation on the success or failure of nations, utilizing case studies of Bangladesh and Pakistan to illustrate its insights. It scrutinizes the role of institutions in fostering economic and social progress and challenges the prevailing New Institutional Economics (NIE) narrative. The book argues that the NIE narrative lacks recognition of ethnic fragmentation, thereby failing to account for the establishment of institutions capable of fostering national cohesion in low- and low-middle-income countries (L/LMICs). It demonstrates that L/LMICs possess distinct cultural contexts, necessitating the initial establishment of national cohesion on a foundation of horizontal equity across ethnic groups and vertical equity across classes. The authors' analysis also explores novel issues, including the catalytic effect of nations acquiring the right of self-determination. Furthermore, the book distinguishes between prime causes (triggers) of economic development and approaches to economic development. Importantly, it highlights the distinction between natural and constructed nations and presents a conceptual framework for analyzing their performance. Lastly, the study examines the process of creating national cohesion in ethnically diverse nations.

This book addresses a critical gap in the literature, appealing to researchers in development economics, political science, sociology, and comparative politics/political theory with a focus on Area Studies. Its comprehensive examination of ethnic fragmentation, institutions, economic development, and national cohesion offers valuable insights for scholars and practitioners seeking to understand and address the complex dynamics of nation-building in diverse societies.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032630823