This paper extends research on the savings and loan (S&L) industry to the banking industry in order to determine whether political influence affects the length of time from initial undercapitalization until ultimate bank failure. Results suggest that undercapitalized banks with representation on...

The structure of taxes and license fees on motor vehicles varies widely across the states. In 1997, automobile owners in 12 states and the District of Columbia paid only a fixed license fee independent of the age or value of the vehicle. But statewide license fees in 15 states declined as the...

Economic development is widely believed to stimulate the development of democratic institutions. This paper supports that argument, but suggests that the connection between industrialization and democracy is quite indirect.

Gordon Tullock’s impact as a scholar was far broader than his own research because he was an initiator of new fields of research rather than one who modestly extended pre-existing pastures. His import as founding editor of Public Choice, as an ambassador for public choice, and as a teacher,...