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Missing Discussions: Institutional Constraints in the Islamic Political Tradition

Author

Listed:
  • A. Arda Gitmez
  • James A. Robinson
  • Mehdi Shadmehr

Abstract

Institutional constraints to prevent abuses of power have been considered essential in the West. An intellectual tradition emerged to justify them. We identify a puzzle: such an intellectual tradition did not exist in the Islamic world, despite the recognition of potential for abuse. We develop a model to explain this difference in normative traditions. Islamic law was more encompassing than divine law in the West, making it easier for citizens to identify and address abuses of power through collective action. Islamic tradition’s core assumptions made the collective action approach to accountability preferable to the institutional approach favored in the West.

Suggested Citation

  • A. Arda Gitmez & James A. Robinson & Mehdi Shadmehr, 2023. "Missing Discussions: Institutional Constraints in the Islamic Political Tradition," NBER Working Papers 30916, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:30916
    Note: POL
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    JEL classification:

    • D70 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - General
    • D72 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Political Processes: Rent-seeking, Lobbying, Elections, Legislatures, and Voting Behavior
    • D78 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Positive Analysis of Policy Formulation and Implementation
    • H11 - Public Economics - - Structure and Scope of Government - - - Structure and Scope of Government

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