An Empirical Analysis of Consanguineous Marriages on Economic Development

Abstract

In our study, development experiences towards economic development are investigated to provide an alternative analysis of economic development, human capital and genetic inheritance in light of consanguineous marriages. The countries analyzed in the study are discussed in accordance with consanguineous marriages and classified by their GDP per capita increase. Countries analyzed in the study represent a wide range of countries. Among these countries, Arab countries that experienced high rates of growth in their gross national income during the 20th century but failed to fulfill adequate development measures followed by the growth in national income; part of the transition countries from socialism to democracy; African countries that experience important complications in the process of development; have important differences in the process of economic development. It is shown that the countries that reached high average development within the context of GNP growth rates, had overcome consanguineous marriages and taken the steps accordingly. The countries that reached the highest development levels banned consanguineous marriages in 19th Century. The prohibition of consanguineous marriages supported the foundation of the labor class during the transition to capitalism and industrialization. According to our opinion, consanguineous marriage is a significant impediment to economic development.