Why Nations Fail

by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson
Why Nations Fail cover
Good Books rating 3.92
History
Technical
  • ID: 1436
  • Added: 2025-10-05
  • Updated: 2025-10-17
  • ISBN: 9781847654618
  • Publisher: Profile Books
  • Published: 2012-03-08
  • Reviews: 4

Why Nations Fail delves into the age-old question of why some nations are more prosperous than others. The authors, Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson, challenge conventional wisdom by arguing that it's not climate, geography, or culture that determines a nation's success, but rather the institutions that govern it. Through a vast array of historical and contemporary examples, they demonstrate how inclusive institutions that foster innovation, expansion, and peace are key to sustained economic growth. The book is the result of fifteen years of research and offers a compelling narrative that blends economics, politics, history, and current affairs to provide a fresh perspective on wealth and poverty./n/nThe authors step into the territory of renowned thinkers like Francis Fukuyama and Ian Morris, presenting a powerful and persuasive theory that challenges the arguments of authors ranging from Max Weber to Jeffrey Sachs and Jared Diamond. Why Nations Fail is not just an academic exploration but a timely and relevant discussion that sheds light on the mechanisms that drive or hinder national prosperity.

Reviews
Gates Notes · Bill Gates · 2013-02-26
insightful 4.50

The book is engaging and easy to read, filled with historical anecdotes that illustrate its central argument. It provides a compelling explanation for why some nations thrive while others fail.

Bill Gates found 'Why Nations Fail' to be an engaging and accessible read, praising its use of historical stories to make complex ideas understandable. He highlights the book's central argument about the importance of inclusive institutions in fostering prosperity. Gates appreciates the thorough research and the way the authors connect historical events to current economic conditions. However, he notes that the book's focus on institutions might oversimplify some of the nuances involved in national development.

Quick quotes

    Why Nations Fail is easy to read, with lots of interesting historical stories about different countries.

    It makes an argument that is both compelling and easy to follow.

    The book's central argument about the importance of inclusive institutions is well-supported.

Oxfam · 2012-12-12
critical 3.00

The review criticizes the book for its lack of emphasis on colonization and imperialism. It argues that the book's focus on the last 200 years is too narrow.

The reviewer from Oxfam offers a critical perspective on 'Why Nations Fail', pointing out that the book does not adequately address the role of colonization and imperialism in global inequality. They argue that the book's focus on the last 200 years is too narrow and overlooks historical factors that have significantly impacted the world's economic landscape. While acknowledging the book's strengths, the reviewer suggests that it falls short in providing a comprehensive analysis of global inequality.

Quick quotes

    It doesn't put much emphasis on colonisation and imperialism by European empires.

    The focus of our book is on explaining world inequality, which is essentially a phenomenon of the last 200 years.

    The book falls short in providing a comprehensive analysis of global inequality.

The New York Times · Thomas L. Friedman · 2012-03-31
enlightening 4.20

The book argues that inclusive institutions are the key to a nation's success, providing a thought-provoking perspective on global prosperity.

Thomas L. Friedman of The New York Times finds 'Why Nations Fail' to be a thought-provoking read that emphasizes the role of inclusive institutions in national prosperity. He appreciates the book's focus on historical examples and its clear thesis. Friedman believes the book offers valuable insights into why some nations thrive while others struggle, though he acknowledges that the argument could benefit from more discussion on contemporary policy implications.

Quick quotes

    Robinson, 'Why Nations Fail' argues that the key differentiator between countries is 'institutions.'

    Nations thrive when they develop 'inclusive' institutions.

    The book provides a compelling and thought-provoking perspective on global prosperity.

The Guardian · The Guardian Reviewer · 2012-03-10
intriguing 4.00

The book offers a compelling analysis of global financial issues, though it may not fully address the complexities of colonialism and imperialism.

The Guardian's reviewer appreciates the book's comprehensive analysis of why some nations succeed while others fail, particularly highlighting its focus on institutions. They find the arguments compelling and well-researched. However, the reviewer notes that the book's Western-centric perspective might overlook the significant impact of colonialism and imperialism on global inequality. This omission could limit the book's applicability to a broader, more inclusive understanding of economic development.

Quick quotes

    Two US academics offer a compelling analysis of the world's financial malaise.

    The book's focus on institutions is insightful but may not fully address the complexities of colonialism and imperialism.

    Why Nations Fail provides a valuable framework for understanding global economic disparities.

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