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Spatial Diffusion of Civil Liberty

Author

Listed:
  • Coro Chasco

    ( Universidad Autónoma de Madrid)

  • Maricruz Lacalle-Calderon

    (Nebrija University)

  • Javier Alfonso-Gil

    (Universidad Autónoma de Madrid)

Abstract

This paper studies the existence of spatial diffusion of civil liberty among neighboring countries.For that purpose, we first combine different exploratory space-time data analysis approaches tofind that this phenomenon is spatially clustered and that a convergence process is at work amongthe world countries from 1985 to 2010, with a structural change by the end of the Twentiethcentury mainly due to the appearance of the Internet. Second, we specify a spatial autoregressivepanel data model for a sample of 130 countries, for 1985–2000, and 172 countries, for 2000–2010.Results provide evidence for spatial diffusion of civil liberty, though it is not constant along thistime span. The spreading rate is 0.34 in the first sub-period. After 2000, it reduces to 0.21;that is, countries only “catch” 21% of the verage changes in their neighbors’ civil liberty levels.Additionally, religious culture, urban agglomeration and GDP explain the levels of civil liberties in the world.

Suggested Citation

  • Coro Chasco & Maricruz Lacalle-Calderon & Javier Alfonso-Gil, 2021. "Spatial Diffusion of Civil Liberty," Revista Economía, Fondo Editorial - Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, vol. 44(87), pages 146-169.
    • Handle: RePEc:pcp:pucrev:y:2021:i:87:p:146-169
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Civil liberty; Spatial diffusion; Religion; Human agglomeration; Internet; Spatialeconometrics;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C21 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models
    • C31 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models; Quantile Regressions; Social Interaction Models
    • D02 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Institutions: Design, Formation, Operations, and Impact
    • O43 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - Institutions and Growth
    • P48 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Other Economic Systems - - - Legal Institutions; Property Rights; Natural Resources; Energy; Environment; Regional Studies

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