Good on Paper What Really Fueled the ‘East Asian Miracle’?
Oct 8, 2024
Oliver Kim, a researcher known for challenging conventional beliefs about economic development, dives into Taiwan's impressive transformation from poverty to prosperity. He explores the complexities of land reform, arguing it’s not just about redistribution but also about fostering productivity. Kim discusses how industrial policy shaped Taiwan and South Korea’s economies, while also emphasizing the vital role of export discipline. With insights on the interplay between political systems and economic success, he redefines what drives a nation’s rise.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
East Asian Miracle
- The East Asian miracle refers to the rapid economic growth of countries like South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan.
- This growth has fascinated researchers, prompting studies into the factors behind their success.
Development Economics
- Development economics seeks to understand why some nations prosper while others remain in poverty.
- A key debate revolves around the different trajectories of East Asian nations versus those in Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Post-War Poverty and Growth
- Post-World War II, widespread poverty was the norm outside of developed nations.
- The East Asian 'tigers' achieved sustained growth, raising questions about their unique success factors.