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Promises in Group Decision Making

Author

Listed:
  • Valeria Faralla
  • Guido Borà
  • Alessandro Innocenti
  • Marco Novarese

Abstract

We assess in the laboratory the impact of promises on group decision-making. The gift-exchange game provides the testing ground for our experiment. When played between groups, inter-group cooperation and reciprocity represent a condition for efficiency in overall decision making. We find that promises have a significant positive effect on aggregate profits. We interpret these findings as if promises act as a trigger of social conformity, according to which groups adopt socially more desirable behavior even without face-to-face communication or discussion.

Suggested Citation

  • Valeria Faralla & Guido Borà & Alessandro Innocenti & Marco Novarese, 2018. "Promises in Group Decision Making," Labsi Experimental Economics Laboratory University of Siena 051, University of Siena.
    • Handle: RePEc:usi:labsit:051
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    Keywords

    group decision; promise; gift-exchange game; efficiency; social conformity.;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty
    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness

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