Sensible Robert Samuelson writes about The Global Poverty Gap discussed in a new book by Gregory Clark.

Money Q:

"By and large, nations have either lifted themselves up or have stayed down. Societies dominated by tribal, religious, ideological or political values that disparage the qualities needed for broad-based growth will not get growth. Economic success requires a tolerance for change and inequality, some minimum level of trust -- an essential for much commerce -- and risk-taking. There are many plausible combinations of government and market power; but without the proper cultural catalysts, all face long odds."

That elephant hiding over there in the corner is Iraq.