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Endogenous Policy Decentralization: Testing the Central Tenet of Economic Federalism

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  • Koleman S. Strumpf
  • Felix Oberholzer-Gee

Abstract

The economic theory of federalism is largely built around the premise that more heterogeneous preferences result in more decentralized policy making. Despite its prominence and importance, this central tenet of economic federalism has never been empirically evaluated. This paper presents the first formal test of the link between preference heterogeneity and endogenous policy decentralization using as a case study liquor control in the United States over the period 193470. The results are reassuring: States with more heterogeneous preferences are more likely to decentralize liquor control and allow for local government decision making.

Suggested Citation

  • Koleman S. Strumpf & Felix Oberholzer-Gee, 2002. "Endogenous Policy Decentralization: Testing the Central Tenet of Economic Federalism," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 110(1), pages 1-36, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:ucp:jpolec:v:110:y:2002:i:1:p:1-36
    DOI: 10.1086/324393
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    References listed on IDEAS

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