James Choy

Dr. James Choy is a Lecturer in the Department of Economics at the University of York. His primary research focuses on development economics, examining how social and political institutions influence poverty, inequality, and economic development. He employs both theoretical and empirical methods to analyze institutions across societies.

His research interests include comparative institutional analysis, the impact of religion on family structures (e.g., studies on the Amish), governance through blackmail systems, and discriminatory institutions in historical contexts like apartheid. He has published in journals such as the Economic Journal, Journal of Development Economics, and Journal of Comparative Economics.

Choy’s work spans theoretical explorations (e.g., 'Kompromat' governance models) to empirical studies (e.g., regional price parities using medical data). His recent projects include analyzing spatial misallocation in the Jim Crow South and the political economy of migration. He maintains a personal website and holds office hours for York students.