Political Science 611: Comparative Political Economy

                                            Spring 2018

                                           Midterm Exam



I. Short Essays: Answer any three (3) questions. Read the instructions before answering and just
answer what the question asks.  Define your terms where necessary.  Please be brief – approximately
2 paragraphs. (25 points each)


 1. Briefly summarize the history and present of global economic growth in two paragraphs.


 2. How did states emerge in Europe and why are they weak in Africa?


 3. How does geography matter in Jared Diamond’s explanation of patterns of development?


 4. How and why does backwardness affect the role of the state in development?


 5. What are the mechanisms through which natural resources are said to hinder democracy?


II. Long Essay. You must answer this question.  Make sure to define your terms. Your answer should
be 2-3 pages. (50 points)


How would you explain the great divergence between rich and poor countries? Of the theories we have
discussed, which is the most important factor and why? Your answer should have four parts: (i) how
does this factor produce the great divergence, (ii) why do you think it is the most important
factor, (iii) how you would defend the theory against criticisms, and (iv) what does this theory
tell us to do in order to help poor countries grow – ie, what are the policy implications.