Analyse économique du droit et méthode expérimentale

This article summarizes the main contributions of experimental economics to the field of law and economics. Laboratory experiments are designed so as to replicate a microeconomic environment and to observe the behaviour of real people interacting in this environment. Observed behaviour can, then, be contrasted with theoretical predictions to assess their empirical relevance. We review four streams of research in experimental law and economics: the Coase Theorem, competition policy, the efficiency of dispute resolution mechanisms, and criminal behaviour.