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No Taxation of Elites, No Representation

Author

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  • Deborah Boucoyannis

    (University of Virginia)

Abstract

Does state weakness lead to representation via taxation? A distinguished body of scholarship assumes that fiscal need forced weak(ened) states to grant rights and build institutions. The logic is traced to pre-modern Europe. However, the literature has misunderstood the link between state strength and the origins of representation. Representation emerged where the state was already strong. In pre-modern Europe, representation originally was a legal obligation, not a right. It became the organizing principle of central institutions where rulers could oblige communities to send representatives authorized to commit to decisions taken at the center. Representation thus presupposed strong state capacity, especially to tax. The revision amends our understanding of the historical paradigms guiding the literature, as well as the application of these paradigms to policies in the developing world. It suggests that societal demands for accountability and better governance (the assumed aims of representation) are more likely to emerge in response to taxation already effectively applied.

Suggested Citation

  • Deborah Boucoyannis, 2015. "No Taxation of Elites, No Representation," Politics & Society, , vol. 43(3), pages 303-332, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:polsoc:v:43:y:2015:i:3:p:303-332
    DOI: 10.1177/0032329215584765
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    Cited by:

    1. Koelble, Thomas A., 2018. "The politics of violence and populism in post-colonial democracy: The role of political society in South Africa," Discussion Papers, Research Unit: Democracy and Democratization SP V 2018-102, WZB Berlin Social Science Center.

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