February 10th 2012

A study of José García Montalvo and Marta Reynal-Querol, faculty of the Department of Economics and Business of the UPF, shows the connection between the level of education of political leaders of a country and its economic development. The main conclusion of the study published in The Economic Journal (August 2011) by Marta Reynal-Querol and José García Montalvo was that countries ruled by leaders with university formation thrive more than those governed by politicians without higher academic education.

In reaching this conclusion, the researchers analyzed data from all countries in the world and its leaders from 1875 since 2004. Their results applied to the Spanish State conclude that Spain has a weak political system that prevents the most qualified people from ruling the country.

The study is among the eight finalists works selected by the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Vanguardia of the Science Award, a joint initiative of Grupo Godó and Catalunya Caixa to support the research of excellence and to reward the best scientific research in the State during the 2011.

People who wish to participate in the Vanguardia of the Science Award, choosing one of the eight finalists nominated, can do it through the La Vanguardia website until February 29th, voting for the best scientific research in the State during 2011.

Reference work: "Do Educated Leaders Matter for Growth?" The Economic Journal, Vol. 121 Issue 554, pp. F205–F227. August 2011. DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-0297.2011.02448.