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Mobility and Conflict

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  • Sourav Bhattacharya
  • Joyee Deb
  • Tapas Kundu

Abstract

We study the role of inter-group differences in the emergence of conflict. In our setting, two groups compete for the right to allocate societyÕs resources, and we allow for costly inter-group mobility. The winning group offers an allocation, that the opposition can either accept, or reject and wage conflict. Expropriating a large share of resources increases political strength by attracting opposition members, but such economic exclusion implies lower per capita shares and higher risk of conflict. In equilibrium, allocations are non-monotonic in the cost of mobility. Moreover, limited commitment with respect to mobility gives rise to inefficient conflict in equilibrium.

Suggested Citation

  • Sourav Bhattacharya & Joyee Deb & Tapas Kundu, 2011. "Mobility and Conflict," Working Paper 455, Department of Economics, University of Pittsburgh, revised Mar 2013.
    • Handle: RePEc:pit:wpaper:455
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    References listed on IDEAS

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