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Research methods in behavioral economics and neuroeconomics

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  • Vasil Stoyanov

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to present the major research methods in the fields of behavioral economics and neuroeconomics. First, the paper starts with a short review on the causes for the emergence of behavioral economics as a separate field in economics in the mid of the twentieth century. Then, the paper makes a chronological review on the four major research methods that have been used in the behavioral economics since its beginning through nowadays. And finally, the paper makes a review on two more research methods that are used primarily in the field of neuroeconomics. The following research methods are examined in this paper: laboratory experiments with hypothetical choices, laboratory experiments with actual outcomes, field research, field experiments, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

Suggested Citation

  • Vasil Stoyanov, 2017. "Research methods in behavioral economics and neuroeconomics," Economic Thought journal, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences - Economic Research Institute, issue 2, pages 145-156.
    • Handle: RePEc:bas:econth:y:2017:i:2:p:145-156
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • B4 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - Economic Methodology
    • D03 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Behavioral Microeconomics: Underlying Principles
    • D87 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Neuroeconomics

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