The role of natural resources in economic development: Turkey's boron experience

Abstract

This master thesis aims to analyze the utilization of boron deposits in Turkey and to elaborate Turkey’s performance in deriving economic benefits from boron production. This research finds out that there is not a prescribed contribution of natural resources to economic development unless the resources are associated with comprehensive policies that are placing the investment in knowledge in the forefront. In this regard, this thesis asserts that, deriving significant contributions for its economy depends on Turkey’s ability in knowledge creation for high value added production rather than geological endowment.