January 9, 2013 - 16:16 AMT
Oskanian: situation in Armenia reminiscent of Hirschman’s treatise

The current situation in Armenia is reminiscent of Albert O. Hirschman’s “Exit, Voice, and Loyalty” treatise, former foreign minister, Prosperous Armenia member posted on his Face book page.

“According to Hirschman, deterioration of situation may trigger different public reaction; people either turn their backs, or resolve to struggle for changes. Certainly, the loyalty factor plays a major role in choosing the right option. The author says, the approach is equally applicable as to ordinary consumer environments, in small and big organizations and particularly in states,” Vartan Oskanian’s post reads.

“Public discontent with the situation in the country stirs up either struggle, or emigration. Those unable to flee the country show disregard for the ongoing developments. Hirschman’s treatise is quite topical, given the current situation in Armenia, the emigration rates and the forthcoming presidential elections,” the ex-minister’s post says.