In this paper we present a model of endogenous trade-policy formation which captures crucial aspects of the Japanese commercial and political culture. We analyze the influence of the portrayed cultural traits and show that cultural idiosyncrasies are important determinants of trade policy...

In this paper we present a model of endogenous trade-policy formation which captures crucial aspects of the Japanese commercial and political culture. We analyze the influence of the portrayed culturel traits and show that cultural idiosyncrasies are important determinants of trade policy...

In societies with a political culture of rent-seeking, social norms do not disallow the use of political office for privileged distribution. Societies with such norms tend to be characterized by political insiders and outsiders. We describe the attendant contestability of rents in the two...

In this paper we present a model of endogenous trade-policy formation which captures crucial aspects of the Japanese commercial and political culture. We analyze the influence of the portrayed cultural traits and show that cultural idiosyncrasies are important determinants of trade policy...