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Pushy or laid back? Economic factors influence parenting style

A new study by Yale economists Fabrizio Zilibotti and Matthias Doepke finds that economic conditions, especially inequality and return to education, shape parenting styles. Parents are driven by a combination of altruism and paternalism, influencing their children's choices through permissive, authoritative, or authoritarian approaches.

SourceYale University·JournalEconometrica·DateOct 5, 2017

Wait-and-see strategy pays off, incentives needed for risk takers

A recent study by University of Illinois economist Hope Michelson found that wait-and-see strategies among farmers in Nicaragua can lead to increased participation in supply chains. The study suggests that incentives may be necessary to encourage risk-takers to join the market, as early adopters bear initial costs and benefits.

Adding commercial soy in developing countries brings unique challenges

Growing commercial soybean in developing countries requires changes to traditional agricultural practices, including weed and pest control, soil correction, and access to certified seed supply chains. This shift can lead to poverty reduction, nutrition improvement, and rural economic development, but also a tradeoff of higher chemical ...

How do international development projects affect property values?

A University of Illinois economist found that property transactions in Kenya did not show significant price changes due to the Millennium Villages Project, despite increased amenities and subsidies. Residents may be holding onto their land to wait for potential value increases, suggesting a lack of perceived benefits.

The way of change is important!

A case study in Guangdong province finds green building development contributes to local economy but is limited by regional conditions. The research uses system dynamic theory to analyze the relationship between green building and regional economy.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Civil Engineering Journal·DateJul 21, 2017

China's economic growth could help other developing countries

Research from the journal Area Development and Policy highlights China's successful economic growth as a model for other developing countries. To achieve sustained growth, these countries should develop their economies according to their comparative advantages and avoid immediate exposure to international competition. However, there ar...

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalArea Development and Policy·DateMar 21, 2017

Making a new pitch for coal

Researchers are working on a $1.6 million project to create a new use for coal, turning it into a carbon-fiber material that could help revitalize struggling coal communities. The process produces substantially less CO2 than traditional methods.