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Strong, bold, and kind: self-control and cooperation in social dilemmas

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  • Kocher, Martin G.
  • Martinsson, Peter
  • Myrseth, Kristian Ove R.
  • Wollbrant, Conny E.

Abstract

We develop a model that relates self-control to cooperation patterns in social dilemmas, and we test the model in a laboratory public goods experiment. As predicted, we find a robust association between stronger self-control and higher levels of cooperation, and the association is at its strongest when the decision maker's risk aversion is low and the cooperation levels of others high. We interpret the pattern as evidence for the notion that individuals may experience an impulse to act in self-interest-and that cooperative behavior benefits from self-control. Free-riders differ from other contributor types only in their tendency not to have identified a self-control conflict in the first place.

Suggested Citation

  • Kocher, Martin G. & Martinsson, Peter & Myrseth, Kristian Ove R. & Wollbrant, Conny E., 2017. "Strong, bold, and kind: self-control and cooperation in social dilemmas," Munich Reprints in Economics 55035, University of Munich, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:lmu:muenar:55035
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    JEL classification:

    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • D03 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Behavioral Microeconomics: Underlying Principles
    • H40 - Public Economics - - Publicly Provided Goods - - - General

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