Political economist Dr. Emily Wong argues that democracy does not guarantee economic development—rather, effective state institutions are the key determinant.
Which comparative study would best support Wong's institutions-first claim?
Singapore and China achieved rapid development under authoritarian rule with strong institutions, while democratic states with weak institutions (several African nations) stagnated; meanwhile, democratic Taiwan and South Korea developed only after building institutional capacity—institutions predict growth, regime type doesn't
Democracy has spread globally
Development takes time
Countries differ economically
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. All four regime-outcome combinations showing institution correlation, not democracy correlation, proves the thesis.
💡 Strategy: Causal claims need evidence across varying conditions of both variables.