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Ethnic Distribution, Effective Power and Conflict

Author

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  • Matija Kovacic

    (Department of Economics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice)

  • Claudio Zoli

    (Department of Economics, University of Verona)

Abstract

This paper highlights the fact that different distributional aspects of ethnicity matter for conflict. We axiomatically derive a parametric class of indices of conflict potential obtained as the sum of each group relative power weighted by the probability of across group interactions. The power component of an extreme element of this class of indices is given by the Penrose-Banzhaf measure of relative power. This index combines in a non-linear way fractionalization, polarization and dominance. The empirical analysis verifies that it outperforms the existing indices of ethnic diversity in explaining ethnic conflict onset.

Suggested Citation

  • Matija Kovacic & Claudio Zoli, 2018. "Ethnic Distribution, Effective Power and Conflict," Working Papers 2018:22, Department of Economics, University of Venice "Ca' Foscari".
    • Handle: RePEc:ven:wpaper:2018:22
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Ethnic distribution; Conflict; Power indices; Polarization; Fractionalization; Dominance;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D63 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Equity, Justice, Inequality, and Other Normative Criteria and Measurement
    • D74 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Conflict; Conflict Resolution; Alliances; Revolutions
    • O57 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Comparative Studies of Countries

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