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Asymmetric Information and Inefficient Regulation of Firms Under the Threat of Revolution

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  • Dorsch, Michael
  • Dunz, Karl
  • Maarek, Paul

Abstract

This paper considers the role of asymmetric information in a political agency theory of autocratic economic policy making. Within the context of a static game, we analyze the strategic interaction between an elite ruling class that sets policy and an imperfectly informed disenfranchised class, who may choose to revolt. We identify the Perfect Bayesian Equilibrium (PBE), which need not be pure strategies. We enrich the basic model in an extension that includes two-sided uncertainty and introduces an additional constraint on the elite's policy decision. The extended model features pure strategies in the PBE, which can include inefficient policy choices and revolution. We char- acterize the equilibrium strategies in terms of the economy's level of development.

Suggested Citation

  • Dorsch, Michael & Dunz, Karl & Maarek, Paul, 2012. "Asymmetric Information and Inefficient Regulation of Firms Under the Threat of Revolution," MPRA Paper 38879, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:pra:mprapa:38879
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    1. Paul Maarek & Michael Dorsch & Karl Dunz, 2012. "Macro Shocks, Regulatory Quality and Costly Political Action," THEMA Working Papers 2012-41, THEMA (THéorie Economique, Modélisation et Applications), Université de Cergy-Pontoise.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Political transition; Revolution; Asymmetric information; Perfect Bayesian equilibrium;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D71 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Social Choice; Clubs; Committees; Associations
    • D74 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Conflict; Conflict Resolution; Alliances; Revolutions
    • P48 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Other Economic Systems - - - Legal Institutions; Property Rights; Natural Resources; Energy; Environment; Regional Studies

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