Industrial revolution Quote by Daron Acemoğlu
““The Industrial Revolution started and made its biggest strides in England because of her uniquely inclusive economic institutions. These in turn were built on foundations laid by the inclusive political institutions brought about by the Glorious Revolution. It was the Glorious Revolution that strengthened and rationalized property rights, improved financial markets, undermined state-sanctioned monopolies in foreign trade, and removed the barriers to the expansion of industry. It was the Glorious Revolution that made the political system open and responsive to the economic needs and aspirations of society. These inclusive economic institutions gave men of talent and vision such as James Watt the opportunity and incentive to develop their skills and ideas and influence the system in ways that benefited them and the nation. Naturally these men, once they had become successful, had the same urges as any other person. They wanted to block others from entering their businesses and competing against them and feared the process of creative destruction that might put them out of business, as they had previously bankrupted others.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Why Nations Fail by Daron Acemoğlu and James A. Robinson, 2012
Inclusive economic and political institutions, fostered by the Glorious Revolution, enabled England’s industrial surge, but later elites resisted change to protect their interests.
In simple terms: Inclusive institutions spark growth; elites may block competition.
Protect and expand inclusive institutions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy design
- economic reform
- business competition
- innovation ecosystems
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies prevent elite capture?
- What policies sustain inclusivity?
Resistance from successful actors can stall progress.