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The Origins of Technolinguistic Diversity

Author

Listed:
  • Stelios Michalopoulos

    (Tufts University and the Institute for Advanced Study)

Abstract
This study explores the determinants of ethnolinguistic diversity within as well as across countries shedding light on its geographic origins. The empirical analysis conducted across countries, virtual countries and pairs of contiguous regions establishes that geographic variability, captured by variation in regional land quality and elevation, is a fundamental determinant of contemporary linguistic diversity. The findings are consistent with the proposed hypothesis that differences in land endowments gave rise to location-specific human capital, leading to the formation of localized ethnicities.

Suggested Citation

  • Stelios Michalopoulos, 2011. "The Origins of Technolinguistic Diversity," Economics Working Papers 0095, Institute for Advanced Study, School of Social Science.
    • Handle: RePEc:ads:wpaper:0095
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Ethnic Diversity; Geography; Growth; Languages; Human Capital;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O10 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - General
    • O40 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - General
    • N50 - Economic History - - Agriculture, Natural Resources, Environment and Extractive Industries - - - General, International, or Comparative
    • Z10 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics - - - General

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