BOOKS Flashcards
What is the “Geographical Hypothesis” in Why Nations Fail?
The hypothesis states that nations fail due to their geography and demography
What is the “Cultural Theory” in Why Nations Fail?
It argues that orthodox social norms and cultures prevent nations from flourishing.
What is the “Ignorance Theory” in Why Nations Fail?
Leadership’s lack of knowledge about effective policymaking leads to national failure.
How do “inclusive state institutions” differ from “extractive institutions”?
Inclusive institutions provide health
Case Study: Why are North Korea and South Korea so different in development?
North Korea under Russia has extractive state institutions controlled by a narrow elite. South Korea under the U.S. established inclusive institutions
How does the comparison of Mexico and America illustrate the importance of institutions?
Despite similarities in geography
What historical event laid the foundation of inclusive institutions in the U.S.?
The settlement of Northern America by Britain
Why is the American Civil War of 1865 significant in Why Nations Fail?
It marked a critical point in abolishing slavery and progressing toward inclusive institutions.
How does the British Industrial Revolution relate to inclusive institutions?
The Industrial Revolution in 1840 uplifted common people and created a market economy
How does China’s economic system differ from its political system?
China has an inclusive economic system but a narrow elite-controlled extractive political system.
What recommendations can be made to Pakistan based on Why Nations Fail?
Pakistan needs to establish inclusive state institutions
What are the six shocks highlighted in Governing the Ungovernable?
- Distance of 1000 miles
What was Pakistan’s economic performance during the 1990s?
Growth slowed from 6% to 4%
What is the “Garrison State” syndrome mentioned in Governing the Ungovernable?
It refers to the country’s focus on defense at the expense of health
How did Pakistan’s bureaucracy change after Bhutto’s reforms?
Bhutto’s bureaucratic reforms led to politicization
What is the main critique of the 18th Amendment in Pakistan?
Power transfer from the federal to provincial levels did not bring significant change; decentralization to the district level is needed.
What suggestions does Governing the Ungovernable offer for reforming Pakistan?
Merit-based democracy
Why does Manto’s writing remain relevant to Pakistan’s challenges?
It critiques societal ignorance and asks
What was Jinnah’s vision for Pakistan?
A secular state where individuals could freely practice religion without misuse or sectarian conflicts.
What are Mohsin Hamid’s reasons for Pakistan’s resilience?
- Strategic location. 2. Diverse culture. 3. Historical evidence of overcoming challenges
What economic challenges does Maleeha Lodhi discuss in Beyond the Crisis State?
Low GDP growth
What does Pakistan a Hard Country highlight about Pakistan’s society?
Society is ‘Janus-faced’—its dual nature ensures unity but also causes underdevelopment due to feudalism and clientelism.
How does Anatol Lieven critique Pakistan’s feudal system?
Feudalism undermines scientific advancement
What does The End of History argue about liberalism?
Francis Fukuyama claims liberal democracy is the endpoint of ideological evolution but acknowledges its challenges in the modern era.
What role does Artificial Intelligence play in 21 Lessons for the 21st Century?
AI will replace jobs across physical
How has globalization impacted nationalism
according to Yuval Noah Harari?
Why does Harari argue for a global justice system?
Global issues like climate change require international tribunals to ensure fairness and address transnational problems.
What is the significance of “Dataism” in Harari’s view?
Dataism refers to the dominance of algorithms that shape decisions and erode privacy
How has religion evolved in the context of modern technology?
Religion now provides answers to ‘why’ questions that science does not address
Why does Harari advocate for educational reform?
Education should move from rote learning to critical thinking and skill-building to prepare for automation and AI-driven futures.
What is the “Silicon Curtain” mentioned in Harari’s work?
The metaphor highlights the divide created by AI and information control
