Question

In Chapter 1 titled "So Close and Yet So Different", in "Why Nations Fail" authors bring up the differences between different countries and analyze the differences between them. Explain and write a 300 word response.

Answer 1

In Chapter 1 of the "Why Nations Fail" author brings up the differences between different countries as the common question from most of people is the factors that makes the country to prosper or fail. Some people believe the difference between countries are determined by geographical factors, such as climate, terrain and etc. However, this Chapter tells us that the geographical factors do not have significant influence on wealth of the country, but the economical factors affects the country. Let's take an example of Nogales, Sonora and Nogales, Arizona, where they have similar geography. If we look at the life of Sonora, it is relatively poor contrast to Arizona. Most of people do not have proper education, crimes occur very often, and rules, and laws are out of control. You might ask why are those two regions totally different despite the fact they are on the same continent. The rational behind this is that Nogales, Arizona is in United State, where it is known as an advanced country. People in Arizona have access to economic institutions of United States, where they have opportunity to get educations and wide range occupations.

Another example of the factors that makes the difference between two countries will be the difference of market system. Calca and Acomayo are one of thirteen provinces of Cusco Region. The two provinces have similar agricultural system that they grow same crops. However, people in Calca sell those crops to accumulate money to better their living standards, while people in Acomayo grow the crops to maintain their own subsistence.