An investigation on the role of institutions for income and growth models

Abstract

This work evaluates the role of institutions on percapita income levels (cross-section) and growth models (panel data). The cross-section results suggest that there is some evidence regarding the role of institutions since all the estimated coefficients are positive and statistically significant but there is evidence of weak instruments. The results from the panel growth models suggest that there is scarce evidence for the role of institutions in fostering long-run growth. In one word, there is no indication of an empirical consensus to claim that institutions have a primary role, meaning that institutions cause growth and difference in income levels.