logo

52 pages 1 hour read

Daron Acemoglu, James A. Robinson

Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty

Daron Acemoglu, James A. RobinsonNonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2012

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Daron Acemoglu, James A. Robinson

Why Nations Fail

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Various • Throughout History

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1300L

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Why Nations Fail by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson explores the reasons behind the varying degrees of success and failure among nations, attributing these differences primarily to the inclusiveness of their economic and political institutions. Through historical case studies, the book argues that nations thrive when they have inclusive institutions that encourage participation and innovation, contrasting with extractive institutions that centralize power and limit opportunity.

Informative

Challenging

Mysterious

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

60,713 ratings

79%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Why Nations Fail by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson is praised for its compelling argument on the role of political and economic institutions in shaping nations' destinies. Critics appreciate its accessible prose and comprehensive historical analysis. However, some argue the thesis is overly deterministic and lacks consideration of cultural factors. Overall, it is a thought-provoking and well-researched work.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Why Nations Fail?

Readers who appreciated Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond or The Wealth and Poverty of Nations by David S. Landes would enjoy Why Nations Fail by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson. This book is ideal for those interested in economic history, political science, and the root causes of national prosperity and poverty.

4.3

60,713 ratings

79%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Various • Throughout History

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1300L

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.