Natural Experiments in Economics

Divided Germany: A Natural Experiment on Capitalism and Central Planning

Berlin Wall: Economic Consequences of Political Division

Which of the following best explains the role of institutions and culture in economic growth during the Industrial Revolution?

What is a natural experiment in the context of studying economic growth?

How did the Enlightenment contribute to economic growth during the Industrial Revolution?

Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between capitalism and the Industrial Revolution?

Analyzing the Causes of Sustained Economic Growth

The Causality Dilemma in Economic History

An economic historian argues that the rapid economic growth starting in the 18th century was primarily driven by a new legal framework that protected inventions with patents and enforced contracts, which encouraged individuals and firms to invest in new technologies and business ventures. This argument emphasizes which of the following as the main cause of the 'hockey stick' growth?

Evaluating Historical Economic Arguments

Economists and historians debate the primary cause of the sustained economic growth that began in the 18th century. Match each piece of historical evidence or argument below to the explanation it best supports.

The fact that the 'hockey stick' of economic growth began around the same time that both capitalist institutions were established and a major cultural shift was occurring definitively proves that one of these factors must be the sole cause of the growth.

Mechanisms of Economic Growth under Capitalism