INSTITUTIONS AS CATALYSTS: INVESTIGATING THEIR ROLE IN COUNTERING THE RESOURCE CURSE

Abstract

The resource curse hypothesis challenges conventional economic theory by suggesting that economies endowed with abundant natural resources tend to underperform in terms of economic growth compared to resource-poor counterparts. However, recent empirical findings highlight the inadequacies of this general hypothesis, as it fails to adequately explain the diverse experiences observed among resource-rich economies. While some resource-abundant nations indeed struggle with economic growth, others have managed to harness their natural endowments to achieve robust development. This nuanced understanding underscores the need for a more comprehensive analysis of the factors influencing economic performance in resource-rich environments.

This abstract delves into the complexities of the resource curse hypothesis, acknowledging its significance in shaping economic discourse while critically examining its limitations. By drawing attention to the varying outcomes observed among resource-rich economies, the paper aims to elucidate the underlying determinants driving divergent economic trajectories. Through a synthesis of empirical evidence and theoretical insights, the study seeks to offer a nuanced perspective on the relationship between natural resource abundance and economic growth, shedding light on the contextual factors that mediate this relationship.