Why Nations Fail
Test your knowledge with 45 questions across 3 challenge tiers
Master These Concepts
Review these key terms before taking the quiz
Daron Acemoglu
The MIT economist who co-authored Why Nations Fail studying institutions and development
Acemoglu has won major awards for research on how institutions shape economic outcomes
James Robinson
The political scientist who co-authored Why Nations Fail bringing historical and political analysis
Robinson expertise in political economy complements Acemoglu economic approach
Inclusive Institutions
Political and economic institutions that spread power and opportunity broadly across society
Inclusive institutions create incentives for investment innovation and broad participation
Extractive Institutions
Institutions designed to extract resources from the many for the benefit of the few
Extractive institutions concentrate power and wealth blocking broad-based development
Creative Destruction
The process where new innovations and businesses replace old ones driving economic progress
Extractive elites fear creative destruction because it threatens their position
Political Institutions
The rules determining who has power and how it can be used
Political institutions shape whether economic institutions will be inclusive or extractive
Select a Quiz Tier
Complete each tier to unlock the next and earn your badges.
Fundamentals
TIER 1 • READER BADGE
Deep Dive
TIER 2 • SCHOLAR BADGE
Expert
TIER 3 • MASTER BADGE
