Institutional Approach to Development and Its Implications for Iran

Studies show that not only there are important differences between old and new institutionalism, but also new Institutional economics is not a single body of thought. In addition, there are important differences in the assumptions, methods and subject matter between the new institutional economics and neoclassical economics. Overall, the institutional approach led to major changes in explanations and policy recommendation about development problems, of which, we can mention the emphasize on importance of informal institutions and organizations, the importance of the firm and importance of interdisciplinary approach. Comparing the approaches of institutional and neoclassical economics toward economic growth, as the most important index of development, shows that institutional approach has greater explanatory power and it suggests different policy recommendations. Recent institutional studies show that creation of a democratic and participatory institutional structure is the foundation of economic growth and a prerequisite for the implementation of right economic policies. However, special attention also should be given to poverty and inequality. Therefore, the move towards a democratic structure is the most important institutional reform that should be done in Iran. This is the only practical way to reduce inequality and achieve sustained growth in the country.