Main content

James Robinson - Professor of Government, Harvard University

Stephen Sackur speaks to the renowned Harvard academic James Robinson. Why do some nations thrive while others fail? What does Norway have that Mali lacks?

Stephen Sackur speaks to the renowned Harvard academic James Robinson. In a recent book, written together with Daron Acemoglu, he tries to answer one of the most basic questions of global economics and politics: why do some nations thrive while others fail? What does Norway have that Mali lacks?

There are of course multiple answers based on physical geography, resources and cultural differences, but 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?

(Image: James Robinson)

23 minutes

Last on

Thu 19 Jul 2012 01:05GMT

Broadcasts

  • Wed 18 Jul 2012 08:05GMT
  • Wed 18 Jul 2012 12:05GMT
  • Wed 18 Jul 2012 15:05GMT
  • Wed 18 Jul 2012 19:05GMT
  • Thu 19 Jul 2012 01:05GMT

Podcast