Date of Award

2011

Document Type

Research Paper

First Advisor

Simon J. L

Abstract

The objective of this project is to understand the causes of growth and development (or lack thereof) that influence nations by examining Ethiopia’s economy and the political dynamics. In this research, Ethiopia’s history highlights major factors that influence tyrannical patterns within political parties, especially within the last few decades. Utilizing an economic approach, the project examined Ethiopia’s growth performance from 1989 to 2007. The Penn World Tables are the primary source of the data used to analyze figures of GDP per capita, adjusted by Purchasing Power Parity (PPP). This allows for prices to be adjusted so that a product in two different countries costs the same. In doing this, we can see the disparities between Ethiopia and other nations using a continental as well as global perspective. The factor inspected further is human capital and the literature focuses on health and education as the underlying phenomena explaining the lack of economic growth. Considering mercantilism was on the rise in the mid 1900’s, political parties often utilized certain forms of capital (often associated with warfare or military) to reinforce their place in society. Ethiopia’s history also demonstrates how instability within political systems stagnated the economy as weaponry and military power began to take precedence. Furthermore, ethnic oriented parties began to form separating communities and dividing the people. The effects of these structural patterns across Africa show how nations similar to Ethiopia experience economic devastation and political turmoil. In addition, this project draws attention to the real life manifestations of these conflicts. It is here that the lack of democratic means of production is discussed to accentuate how global activities affect African nations like Ethiopia.

Comments

WSP Major: Africa in Perspective

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