Political power Quote by Daron Acemoğlu
““Finally, when growth comes under extractive political institutions but where economic institutions have inclusive aspects, as they did in South Korea, there is always the danger that economic institutions become more extractive and growth stops. Those controlling political power will eventually find it more beneficial to use their power to limit competition, to increase their share of the pie, or even to steal and loot from others rather than support economic progress. The distribution and ability to exercise power will ultimately undermine the very foundations of economic prosperity, unless political institutions are transformed from extractive to inclusive.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Economic Origins of Inclusive Institutions, 2012
Economic growth can be reversed when political power becomes extractive, even if institutions were once inclusive.
In simple terms: Power can corrupt growth.
Key Takeaway
Guard against power abuse.
Themes
economics
politics
institutional change
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
academic
critical
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- anti‑corruption measures
- public oversight
- civil society action
Key Concepts
extractive vs inclusive institutions
political economy
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards prevent power concentration?
- How can inclusive institutions be reinforced?
A Different Perspective
Reforms may be blocked by entrenched interests.
