Why are some countries rich and others poor? This leading text introduces students to the latest theoretical tools, data, and insights underlying this pivotal question. By showing how empirical evidence relates to new and old theoretical ideas, Economic Growth provides students with a complete introduction to the discipline and the latest research.

In addition to thorough updates to the data throughout the book, this fourth edition responds to new research in the field since the last edition. Major changes include:

• new material on labor’s share of income
• updated material on health and education
• updated material on the impact of trade on productivity
• a heavily revised chapter on government, including an expanded section on legacy effects of colonialism
• a heavily revised chapter on income inequality, including an expanded section on mobility
• a heavily revised chapter on culture, including an expanded section on persistent effects of geographical factors
• updated material on climate change, including an expanded discussion of outcomes and policies related to global warming
• updated online learning resources

With its comprehensive and flexible organization, Economic Growth is ideal for a wide array of courses, including undergraduate and graduate courses in economic growth, economic development, macroeconomic theory, applied econometrics, and development studies.

Quamrul H. Ashraf is Halvorsen Professor for Distinguished Teaching and Research of Economics, Williams College, USA.

David N. Weil is James and Merryl Tisch Professor of Economics, Brown University, USA.