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Isolation and Development

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Abstract

This paper exploits cross-country variation in the degree of geographical isolation, prior to the advent of sea-faring and airborne transportation technologies, to examine its impact on the course of economic development across the globe. The empirical investigation establishes that prehistoric geographical isolation has generated a persistent beneficial effect on the process of development and contributed to the contemporary variation in the standard of living across countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Quamrul Ashraf & Oded Galor & Omer Ozak, 2009. "Isolation and Development," Working Papers 2009-9, Brown University, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:bro:econwp:2009-9
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Growth; Development; Isolation; Agglomeration; Globalization;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F15 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Economic Integration
    • N7 - Economic History - - Economic History: Transport, International and Domestic Trade, Energy, and Other Services
    • O10 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - General

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