WHY NATIONS FAIL The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty

The authors offer a comprehensive institutional theory for the wealth and poverty of nations, extolling “inclusive institutions” as the sources of prosperity and stability and “extractive institutions” as the sources of poverty and nation failure. England's “Glorious Revolution” of 1688 becomes the yardstick with which to measure the development of inclusive institutions around the world. Dan Woren’s deep, resonant voice effectively presents the authors’ sometimes complex political observations. His narration is measured and clear. As will happen when a book draws examples from around the world, Woren’s pronunciation sometimes leaves something to be desired. For example, the phrase “ancien régime” and the names of Communist Chinese officials create problems. F.C. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2012]