Working Paper: NBER ID: w23278
Authors: Enrico Spolaore; Romain Wacziarg
Abstract: We present a conceptual framework linking cultural heterogeneity to inter-group conflict. When conflict is about control of public goods, more heterogeneous groups are expected to fight more with each other. In contrast, when conflict is about rival goods, more similar groups are more likely to engage in war with each other. We formalize these ideas within an analytical model and discuss recent empirical studies that are consistent with the model's implications.
Keywords: No keywords provided
JEL Codes: D74; H56; N40
Edges that are evidenced by causal inference methods are in orange, and the rest are in light blue.
| Cause | Effect |
|---|---|
| cultural heterogeneity (Z19) | increased conflict (D74) |
| cultural similarity (Z13) | likelihood of engaging in warfare (D74) |
| cultural heterogeneity (Z19) | likelihood of engaging in warfare (D74) |