A survey of the causes of civil conflicts: Natural factors and economic conditions

Abstract

We provide an overview of the roots of civil conflict and distinguish between economic conditions and natural factors. We discuss the very recent (quasi-experimental) evidence on the effect of economic wealth, commodity prices and climate on the likelihood of civil conflict. As a preamble, we present an overview of the theoretical literature on the roots of conflict and distinguish between “capacity-related” and “opportunity-related” causes of conflict. We also provide policy implications regarding the prevention of civil conflicts.