Majority State Ownership of Oil and Mining Sectors in Africa

Rezensionen / Stimmen

"Why so many countries that possess abundant natural resources experienced more negative economic outcomes is a phenomenon known as the "natural resource curse," and it has resulted in a rich academic literature. Less often addressed is the variation in performance among these nations. John Quinn, in this invaluable book, provides a compelling answer: the extent of state ownership and management of these sectors. With meticulous documentation, Quinn shows that countries with majority ownership and control featured poorer economic outcomes than those will less state involvement. This cogent and accessibly written book is a must read for scholars, students, and practitioners of economic development."

Michael Lofchie, Political Science, UCLA

"This volume offers an insightful treatment of the natural resource curse. Quinn's investigation of oil and mineral exporting states in sub-Saharan Africa produces an important conclusion: majority state ownership is crucial in bringing on more harmful results. This policy-relevant volume is essential reading for anyone with interests in political economy or Africa."

Patrick James, Dornsife Dean's Professor Emeritus, International Relations, USC, United States

"Quinn offers a compelling and readable book that deals with the overlooked variable of majority state ownership of natural resources in resource rich countries. Such ownership can lead to more severe forms of the resource curse, often characterized by low growth. High natural resources endowments need not condemn a country to the resource curse. A more limited government role in ownership, with sound policy and regulation, can better promote the national interest. Highly recommended!"

Emmanuel Nnadozie, Former Executive Secretary, African Capacity Building Foundation

"Using a Most Similar Systems Design and the lens of political economy, Quinn presents detailed case studies of African countries heavily engaged in oil or mining exporting to examine the "resource curse" controlling for the impact of majority state ownership, concluding that resource endowments present more of a "challenge" than a "curse." Scholars and students from a variety of fields can flexibly use this intriguing book for its general theory and methodology, for its detailed case studies, or both."

Terry Olson, Chair Economics, Truman State University

"Any student of African politics and political economy-like the reviewer-very much welcomes detailed analysis of the region, especially when results put negative, stereotypical findings into perspective and provide practical advice. Finally, the book demonstrates how to successfully apply a multi-method approach. While cross-sectional statistical analysis provides the big picture, more qualitative paired comparison digs deeper into the cases. [...] John Quinn's book represents valuable scholarly work and is highly recommend for students and scholars who want to learn more about the political economy of natural resources and African politics alike."

Matthias Basedau, German Institute for Global and Area Studies, writing in Perspectives on Politics, Cambridge University Press.