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Character of Nations

Tom Sowell recomends The Character of Nations.

I have not read the book but did read the column and three reviews at Amazon. As Sowell notes, Russia is a nation rich in natural resouces that still offers little opportunity for its citizens. This is so much so that Friedman in his book (see my post 5/26/09) suggests that declining demographics will spell the end of that country. Russia is not offering stipends for women who have children. Certainly bribery and the lack of a real legal system has kept Mexico,another country rich in resources from advancing a level closer to Canda and the US. Japan does not consdier bribes which are a way of life just next door in China, why?

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3 responses to “Character of Nations”

  1. Adam Dupnik Avatar
    Adam Dupnik

    I saw a segment on CNBC last night about how Africa has had alot of investors coming to their country. China is starting to take a serious interest in Africa. They were talking with a CEO from one of the largest oil companies and he mentioned how the U.S. took to long to come in and invest and missed a great opportunnity. They were also mention IRR and how people took companies such as Orbitz and started their own version in Africa. Also they have non stop flights from New York to cities in Africa.
    Ill see if I cant find the link to send to you.

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  2. Dennis Elam Avatar
    Dennis Elam

    Good point Adam, I had a post on the blog referring students to the fine article in Fast Times on China in Africa. I will look that up and post a link
    DLE

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  3. Adam Dupnik Avatar
    Adam Dupnik

    here is the link
    http://www.cnbc.com/id/30959351
    the next show times are as follows
    Sunday, June 14th 10p ET
    Thursday, June 18th 10p ET
    Monday, June 22nd 1a ET
    Friday, July 3rd 7p ET

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