In this paper we discuss determinants of firm survival and growth in Germany within its pre-1989 boundaries. We develop our central hypotheses on the basis of a simple theoretical model describing the self-selection of heterogeneous entrepreneurs into particular legal forms, and the implications...

Part I. Property rules and liability rules -- Property rules, liability rules and inalienability : one view of the cathedral / Guido Calabresi and A. Douglas Melamed -- Property rights and liability rules : the ex ante view of the cathedral / Lucian Arye Bebchuk -- Modular liability rules /...