Yes markets make people more outward looking, trusting, and tolerant, but:
All this sounds pretty good for the Montesquieus of the world. But the researchers had another result. Greater market access did seem to weaken family-based co-operation, lowering the share of vulnerable people including orphans, people with disabilities and the elderly being looked after by relatives at home.
So if you were looking for a simple answer, sorry. The study supports both sidesβ view of markets β they make it easier to co-operate with strangers but potentially weaken ties closer to home. Think of the Marmite not as delicious nor disgusting, but as a complex mix of flavours reorienting your taste buds.
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