The Political Economy of Government Responsiveness: Theory and Evidence from India

@article{Besley2000ThePE,
  title={The Political Economy of Government Responsiveness: Theory and Evidence from India},
  author={Timothy J. Besley and Robin Burgess},
  journal={CEPR Discussion Paper Series},
  year={2000}
}
The determinants of government responsiveness to its citizens is a key issue in political economy. Here we develop a model based on the solution of political agency problems. Having a more informed and politically active electorate strengthens incentives for governments to be responsive. This suggests that there is a role both for democratic institutions and the mass media in ensuring that the preferences of citizens are reflected in policy. The ideas behind the model are tested on panel data… Expand
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