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Tra i Leoni: Revealing the preferences behind a superstition

Author

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  • Invernizzi, Giovanna M.
  • Miller, Joshua B.
  • Coen, Tommaso
  • Dufwenberg, Martin
  • Oliveira, Luiz Edgard R.

Abstract

We examine a superstition for which adherence is nearly universal among its target population. Using a combination of field interventions that involve unsuspecting participants and a lab-style value elicitation, we investigate the nature and strength of peoples’ underlying preferences. While a substantial minority of people are willing to incur a relatively high individual cost in order to adhere to the superstition, for many, adherence is contingent on the behavior of others. Our findings are consistent with the idea that it is the conforming nature of the majority that sustains the false beliefs of the minority.

Suggested Citation

  • Invernizzi, Giovanna M. & Miller, Joshua B. & Coen, Tommaso & Dufwenberg, Martin & Oliveira, Luiz Edgard R., 2021. "Tra i Leoni: Revealing the preferences behind a superstition," Journal of Economic Psychology, Elsevier, vol. 82(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:joepsy:v:82:y:2021:i:c:s0167487020300854
    DOI: 10.1016/j.joep.2020.102324
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Superstition; Conformity; Field experiment; Lab-in-the-field;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C93 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Field Experiments
    • D01 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Microeconomic Behavior: Underlying Principles
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making

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