Hobson, John M
(1991)
The tax-seeking state: Protectionism, taxation and state structures in Germany, Russia, Britain and America, 1870-1914.
PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.
Abstract
The twin processes of "economic development" and "state behaviour'' are explained by the major paradigms through reference to economically "reductionist" methodologies. In particular Marxist and Late Development theories have helped perpetuate this methodology. This thesis provides an alternative framework for understanding the above-mentioned processes. In particular, the "autonomous powers" of the state will form a central approach throughout each chapter. Not only do states have multiple powers, but these vary across different political regime forms. These powers are revealed through an empirical examination of the determination of tariff protectionism as it emerged in Europe in the late 187CK s. The argument will focus on a multi-causal approach. Thus the causal input of economic interest groups will be examined. Although these will form a part of the explanation offered here, they will have less salience than is commonly found in the social science literature. The interests of the state are mainly those connected to the demands of "fiscal accumulation". Overall "state interests" are neither monolithic nor unified. Thus it will not be possible to speak of the state as an "actor". States are not so rational as the term would imply. Moreover, "the state" turns out to be a complex political arena of struggling factions, all vying for exclusivist political power. These autonomous state struggles impacted upon economic development; in this case, tariff protectionism. As well as explaining the rise of protectionism in Germany and Russia, as well as America (chapter 2, 3 and 5), the maintenance of British free trade will be also be explained through the model presented here. In addition, industrialisation in Russia will be explained, also from the approach of statist-economy. This approach will be developed more fully in the final chapter.
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