Arbeitspapier

Preferences for consistency

This paper studies how a preference for consistency can affect economic decision-making. We propose a two-period model where people have a preference for consistency because consistent behavior allows them to signal personal and intellectual strength. We then present three experiments that study main predictions and implications of the model. The first is a simple principal-agent experiment that shows that consistency is valued by others and that this value is anticipated. The second experiment underlines the crucial role of early commitment for consistency preferences. Finally we show how preferences for consistency can be used to manipulate choices.

Sprache
Englisch

Erschienen in
Series: IZA Discussion Papers ; No. 5840

Klassifikation
Wirtschaft
Design of Experiments: Laboratory, Individual
Altruism; Philanthropy; Intergenerational Transfers
Thema
consistency preferences
experiments
early commitment
charitable giving
social influence

Ereignis
Geistige Schöpfung
(wer)
Falk, Armin
Zimmermann, Florian
Ereignis
Veröffentlichung
(wer)
Institute for the Study of Labor (IZA)
(wo)
Bonn
(wann)
2011

Handle
URN
urn:nbn:de:101:1-201107283636
Letzte Aktualisierung
10.03.2025, 11:43 MEZ

Datenpartner

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Objekttyp

  • Arbeitspapier

Beteiligte

  • Falk, Armin
  • Zimmermann, Florian
  • Institute for the Study of Labor (IZA)

Entstanden

  • 2011

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