Economics research seminar: Mark Gradstein, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

Research topic: State building and social control

Presenter

Mark Gradstein, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

Topic

State building and social control

abstract

A modicum of homogeneity of social norms and behavior is deemed valuable by societies, and social control is a way to achieve it.  In this paper, we posit an intertemporally evolving economy populated by masses and elites, whereby social norms of the former affect the welfare of the latter group.  Consequently, the elites may exercise social control in order to induce the masses to embrace norms aligned with their own preferences.  Our analysis reveals, in particular, that social control may go hand in hand with public spending and with the prevalence of mass education, both of which accelerate the convergence of the masses’ norms to those favored by the elites.  

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Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.