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The New Palgrave Dictionary of Economics pp 11501–11506Cite as

Palgrave Macmillan

Religion and Economic Development

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Abstract

The role of religion in economic development warrants a nuanced perspective that integrates economic theory with an understanding of socio-political structures, appreciating the econometric issues that arise in quantifying religious processes. Existing research focuses on religious structures and organizations, state religions, faith-based welfare programmes, the regulation of religion, and the impact of religion on measures of well-being such as income and education. Viewing religion as spiritual capital, with the attendant role played by religious network externalities in fostering economic development, is vital for development policy. Contemporary research in religion and economic development is flourishing, encompassing all these diverse concerns.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. http://link.springer.com/referencework/10.1057/978-1-349-95121-5

    Sriya Iyer

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  1. Sriya Iyer
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Iyer, S. (2018). Religion and Economic Development. In: The New Palgrave Dictionary of Economics. Palgrave Macmillan, London. https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-349-95189-5_2598

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