Prof. Lily L Tsai

Governance, accountability, and public goods provision -- Using both quantitative and qualitative data, my research seeks to identify the factors that lead to better governmental performance and accountability for the provision of public goods and services such as education and basic infrastructure in developing countries. Such factors include processes of decentralization, the implementation of democratic reforms, informal institutions and nongovernmental actors, and economic development.

Social capital and civil society -- Scholars and policymakers often argue for the promotion of civil society and social capital as necessary for development and democratic consolidation. My research suggests that different types of social capital and social groups – including those that link state and nonstate actors – may have positive as well as negative impacts on social and political outcomes.

Political attitudes and behavior in nondemocratic and transitional systems -- Using a variety of approaches – survey research, case studies, in-depth interviews with individuals, and field experimentation – I seek to understand how and when relatively powerless individuals in developing countries and transitional political systems decide to participate in politics and articulate their interests.