Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson is a compelling exploration into why some nations achieve wealth and stability while others struggle with poverty and conflict. The authors argue that political and economic institutions shape a nation’s success, positing that "inclusive" institutions—those allowing broad participation in economic activities and enforcing fair laws—are crucial to prosperity. In contrast, "extractive" institutions, which concentrate power and wealth in the hands of a few, lead to stagnation and inequality. Through historical case studies, the book demonstrates how political structures and institutional choices, not geography or culture, determine a nation’s trajectory, making it a thought-provoking analysis of global inequalities.
