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James Robinson - Professor of Government, Harvard University

Harvard academic James Robinson is adamant that the development of resilient, inclusive political institutions is key to a nation's prosperity. Stephen Sackur tests his argument.

It's the most basic question of global economics and politics; why do some nations thrive while others fail? What does Norway have which Mali lacks? There are of course multiple answers based on physical geography, resources and cultural differences, but the renowned Harvard academic James Robinson is adamant one factor determines economic success much more than all others: the development of resilient, inclusive political institutions. Put crudely the idea is political freedom begets prosperity - but is that always true?

30 minutes

Last on

Fri 13 Jul 2012 03:30GMT

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