This paper discusses the recent literature on the role of the state in economic development. It concludes that government incentives to enact sound policies are key to economic success. It also discusses the evidence on what happens after episodes of economic and political liberalizations,...

1. Introduction -- 2. Developing country growth and the commodity terms of trade -- 3. The statistical properites of commodity prices -- 4. Country case studies : primary commodities and economic development -- 5. Conclusion : commodity dependence in developing countries: economic destiny or...