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Ideological Alignment and Evidence-Based Policy Adoption

Author

Listed:
  • Jorge García-Hombrados
  • Marcel Jansen
  • Ángel Martínez
  • Berkay Özcan
  • Pedro Rey-Biel
  • Antonio Roldán- Monés

Abstract

The implementation of evidence-based policies hinges on the dissemination of evidence to policymakers, a process influenced by the attributes of the sender. We conducted a nationwide RCT with ideologically opposite think tanks, major newspapers, and a research institution with nonsalient ideology to communicate a nonideological, cost-effective policy to local policymakers. Results show a 65 percent increase in policy adoption when informing institutions align ideologically with policymakers. We compare the impact of think tanks versus media outlets on implementation, finding both equally effective when ideologically aligned. We explore three actions where ideology may influence adoption: information exposure, belief updating and implementation.

Suggested Citation

  • Jorge García-Hombrados & Marcel Jansen & Ángel Martínez & Berkay Özcan & Pedro Rey-Biel & Antonio Roldán- Monés, 2026. "Ideological Alignment and Evidence-Based Policy Adoption," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 116(7), pages 2574-2603, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:aecrev:v:116:y:2026:i:7:p:2574-2603
    DOI: 10.1257/aer.20240673
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C93 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Field Experiments
    • D72 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Political Processes: Rent-seeking, Lobbying, Elections, Legislatures, and Voting Behavior
    • D78 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Positive Analysis of Policy Formulation and Implementation
    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness
    • I23 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Higher Education; Research Institutions

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