Theory, general equilibrium and political economy in development economics

the long version

I discuss the role of economic theory in empirical work in development economics with special emphasis on general equilibrium and political economy considerations. I argue that economic theory plays (should play) a central role in formulating models, estimates of which can be used for counterfactual and policy analysis. I discuss why counterfactual analysis based on microdata that ignores general equilibrium and political economy issues may lead to misleading conclusions. I illustrate the main arguments using examples from recent work in development economics and political economy. Keywords: economic development, economic theory, methodology of economics, political. JEL Classifications: O10, O12, B41, D50, P48.