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The silent majority?

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  • Ao, Wallice
  • Wu, Jiabin

Abstract

This paper presents a simple model illustrating how a silent group would arise in equilibrium. The members of a silent group choose not to publicly express their opinions in the face of social pressure from norm deviation. The silent group can be either the majority or the minority depending on the comparison between the strength of social pressure and the psychological cost of dispossession. The social norm, which is the average opinion of the vocal group, can be on either the left or the right side of the political spectrum. Moreover, multiple vocal and silent groups can coexist.

Suggested Citation

  • Ao, Wallice & Wu, Jiabin, 2020. "The silent majority?," Economics Letters, Elsevier, vol. 193(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecolet:v:193:y:2020:i:c:s0165176520302251
    DOI: 10.1016/j.econlet.2020.109350
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Silent majority; Social norm; Social pressure;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C72 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Noncooperative Games
    • D70 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - General

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