Evolution and spontaneous uniformity: Evidence from the evolution of the limited liability company

We examine whether the unguided state-by-state evolution of limited liability company statutes has led to efficient interstate uniformity. Our evidence suggests significant uniformity has been produced in cases where the net benefits of uniformity are positive, and that such uniformity has not been produced by herd behavior. Our results an consistent with Alchian's intuition about the role of market processes, and suggests that the survival 4 efficient rules, fostered by the rational behavior of decentralized economic actors, are produced by forces beyond the control or foresight 4 individual lawmakers or legislatures.