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The Political Economy of Lighthouses: Some Further Considerations

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  • Carnis Laurent

    (Paris-Est University, IFSTTAR-AME-DEST, Cité Descartes 14-20 Boulvevard Newton, Marne La Vallée 77447, France)

Abstract

Lighthouse and the Trinity House case have triggered extensive debate on the possibility of private production of public goods and, more especially, lighthouse services provision. This contribution sums up current academic debate about lighthouse provision. It shows that the English system of lighthouse services provision cannot be rigorously considered as an example of private provision. Some historical experiences have shown that private provision was possible, although governmental hindrances restrained a full-fledged market process provision. This contribution defends the interest of mobilizing a political economy perspective for an understanding of the different frameworks and institutional designs for providing such services. Some national cases illustrate and sustain the proposed political economy framework.

Suggested Citation

  • Carnis Laurent, 2014. "The Political Economy of Lighthouses: Some Further Considerations," Journal des Economistes et des Etudes Humaines, De Gruyter, vol. 20(2), pages 143-165, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:bpj:jeehcn:v:20:y:2014:i:2:p:143-165:n:4
    DOI: 10.1515/jeeh-2014-0017
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Candela, Rosolino A. & Geloso, Vincent, 2019. "Why consider the lighthouse a public good?," International Review of Law and Economics, Elsevier, vol. 60(C).

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