Evolution and the growth process: Natural selection of entrepreneurial traits

A-Tier
Journal: Journal of Economic Theory
Year: 2012
Volume: 147
Issue: 2
Pages: 759-780

Score contribution per author:

2.011 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

This research suggests that a Darwinian evolution of entrepreneurial spirit played a significant role in the process of economic development and the dynamics of inequality within and across societies. The study argues that entrepreneurial spirit evolved non-monotonically in the course of human history. In early stages of development, risk-tolerant, growth promoting traits generated an evolutionary advantage and their increased representation accelerated the pace of technological progress and the process of economic development. In mature stages of development, however, risk-averse traits gained an evolutionary advantage, diminishing the growth potential of advanced economies and contributing to convergence in economic growth across countries.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:eee:jetheo:v:147:y:2012:i:2:p:759-780
Journal Field
Theory
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-25