Survey of Economic Development

Discussion 3.1

How robust is the 'extractive versus inclusive institutions' theory at explaining why certain nations succeed and why others fail? Or do you find the distinction simplistic? [Note that this is based on Acemoglu and Robinson's quite lengthy book. You are not responsible for reading the entire book during this Week. Many reviews have been written about it, which you can consult in order to get the main ideas. My lecture notes will also cover the essential points. I do recommend that you read Chs. 3, 8, and 13 of their book. For this Discussion Post, focus on the reasoning behind the institutional characterization and the quality of the evidence offered by the authors, their proponents, and their critics.]

Post your thoughts on the Discussion Board.

Post at least two follow-up postings of other students' Discussions.

Consult the grading rubric for posting on the Discussion Board. You can view the grading rubric by clicking the upper right "three dots" button - "show rubric".

Econ 661 Discussion Posts Criteria Original Posting Ratings 3 pts Excellent Same as Good, except the ideas and insights are of high quality in that they are critical, incorporate concepts from the readings, and synthesize the ideas into a coherent whole. They are also supported with examples, or references/cita tions. * 2 pts Good Demonstrates thorough familiarity with the readingis), and interprets the content or objective accurately. Posts a discussion that addresses all aspects of the task. Ideas and insights are interesting, but tangential or not fully developed. 1 pts Acceptable Demonstrates some familiarity with the reading(s), but does not have fully accurate information about the content or objective. Posts a discussion with superficial thought and preparation; does not address all aspects of the task. Pts 0 pts Unacceptable Posts no discussion 3/ 3pts 3 pts 2 pts 1 pts 0 pts Excellent Good Acceptable Unacceptable Demonstrates Elaborates on Posts shallow Posts no analysis of an existing contribution to comments on others' posts; posting with discussion (e.g., other people's extends further agrees or discussions meaningful comment or disagrees); discussion by observation. does not enrich building on Asks discussion. previous posts. thoughtful (Half credit Follow- Up Asks questions questions to given if only 1 Postings or shows further the follow-on 3 / 3 pts examples to discussion. posting is extend the (Half credit made) discussion given if only 1 further than follow-on the initial posting is question. (Half made) credit given if only 1 follow- on posting is made) Total Points: 6