New research papers, from Napster to the Spanish Inquisition

We have presented evidence, from three independent approaches, showing clearly that the quality of new recorded music has not fallen since Napster. (HT Mostly Economics).

Chinese companies connected to the government can get subsidised captial but they do not show better performance (HT Chris Blattman).

[R]egions that were more affected by the Inquisition are associated with a lower economic development than regions less affected by it. (HT Chris Blattman). 

Chris Blattman links to other interesting articles.