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Political Jurisdictions in Heterogeneous Communities

Author

Listed:
  • Alberto Alesina
  • Reza Baqir
  • Caroline Hoxby

Abstract

We investigate whether political jurisdictions form in response to the trade-off between economies of scale and the costs of a heterogeneous population. We consider heterogeneity in income, race, ethnicity, and religion, and we test the model using American school districts, school attendance areas, municipalities, and special districts. We find strong evidence of a trade-off between economies of scale and racial heterogeneity; we also find evidence of a trade-off between economies of scale and income heterogeneity. Conversely, we find little evidence that ethnic or religious heterogeneity shapes jurisdictions. To clarify the direction of causality between heterogeneity and jurisdictions, we exploit shocks to racial heterogeneity generated by the two world wars.

Suggested Citation

  • Alberto Alesina & Reza Baqir & Caroline Hoxby, 2004. "Political Jurisdictions in Heterogeneous Communities," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 112(2), pages 348-396, April.
  • Handle: RePEc:ucp:jpolec:v:112:y:2004:i:2:p:348-396
    DOI: 10.1086/381474
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    References listed on IDEAS

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