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The Ambiguity Box: A new tool to generate ambiguity in the lab

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  • Morone, Andrea
  • Caferra, Rocco

Abstract

The Ambiguity Box is a software tool that visualizes uncertainty in laboratory experiments. It is a dynamic frame composed of squares that randomly change colours, creating an uncertain and ambiguous environment. This encourages participants to infer the probabilities of each colour. The tool contributes to the economic literature by introducing a new layer of uncertainty, overcoming limitations of traditional tools like the Bingo Blower. The Ambiguity Box is more practical as it is software-based and can be used with any electronic device. It is flexible, allowing experimenters to predetermine the number of squares of each colour, making it adaptable to various experimental designs. It is easily scalable, suitable for use in different contexts, and allows for the exploration of decision-making under ambiguity in diverse settings, dealing also with extremely low probabilities.

Suggested Citation

  • Morone, Andrea & Caferra, Rocco, 2024. "The Ambiguity Box: A new tool to generate ambiguity in the lab," Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Economics (formerly The Journal of Socio-Economics), Elsevier, vol. 113(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:soceco:v:113:y:2024:i:c:s2214804324001368
    DOI: 10.1016/j.socec.2024.102299
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Ambiguity; Risk; Bingo blower; Online experiment;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty

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