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Can homo economicus be an altruist? A classroom experimental method

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  • Kopczewski, Tomasz
  • Okhrimenko, Iana

Abstract

The model of rational economic man (homo oeconomicus), being the central concept in economics, is not profoundly presented during basic economics classes. Thus, students can misinterpret the concept: homo oeconomicus is presumed to be rational and utterly selfish, while altruistic behaviour is treated as a deviation. Incorporating pro-social and altruistic motives to the models of rational human behaviour is a relatively new trend in academic economic literature, while undergraduate teaching programs still tend to neglect issues related to ethics, moral reasoning, or social interactions.

Suggested Citation

  • Kopczewski, Tomasz & Okhrimenko, Iana, 2019. "Can homo economicus be an altruist? A classroom experimental method," International Review of Economics Education, Elsevier, vol. 32(C), pages 1-1.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ireced:v:32:y:2019:i:c:2
    DOI: 10.1016/j.iree.2019.100167
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    References listed on IDEAS

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