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The Origins of Government and the State

Author

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  • Leander Heldring

    (Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA)

Abstract

In recent years, a vibrant literature has emerged that studies the first states in history, both as substantive topic of interest and as an important input into understanding modern government. This survey article presents, structures, and discusses recent advances in the theoretical and empirical study in the economics of the origins of government and the state. The core hypotheses in this literature view the nature of government as extractive or cooperative. I discuss how this fundamental dichotomy in the view of the state has influenced its study and review empirical contributions. The fundamental dichotomy is not resolved, leaving room for further research.

Suggested Citation

  • Leander Heldring, 2025. "The Origins of Government and the State," Annual Review of Economics, Annual Reviews, vol. 17(1), pages 77-97, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:anr:reveco:v:17:y:2025:p:77-97
    DOI: 10.1146/annurev-economics-081224-064327
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • D74 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Conflict; Conflict Resolution; Alliances; Revolutions
    • H10 - Public Economics - - Structure and Scope of Government - - - General
    • N20 - Economic History - - Financial Markets and Institutions - - - General, International, or Comparative
    • N40 - Economic History - - Government, War, Law, International Relations, and Regulation - - - General, International, or Comparative
    • O43 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - Institutions and Growth
    • P16 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Capitalist Economies - - - Capitalist Institutions; Welfare State

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