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Optimism about human pro-sociality correlates with higher confidence in free markets

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  • López-Pérez, Raúl
  • Santamaría, Diego

Abstract

The way individuals perceive free markets plays a pivotal role in shaping policy preferences. In this study, we investigate the potential correlation between beliefs about human pro-sociality and the perception that free markets contribute to overall societal well-being. To explore this relationship, we employ incentivized belief elicitation techniques, capturing individuals' perspectives on the prevalence of self-interested, damaging, and helping behavior across diverse situations in four experimental games. Our findings reveal that the most significant predictor of a high confidence in free markets is an optimistic or uncynical worldview. Specifically, this refers to the belief that disinterested and reciprocal helping behavior occurs frequently. In contrast, interpersonal trust and beliefs about the frequency of some specific pro-social and anti-social behaviors do not influence confidence in free markets.

Suggested Citation

  • López-Pérez, Raúl & Santamaría, Diego, 2025. "Optimism about human pro-sociality correlates with higher confidence in free markets," Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Economics (formerly The Journal of Socio-Economics), Elsevier, vol. 119(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:soceco:v:119:y:2025:i:c:s2214804325001405
    DOI: 10.1016/j.socec.2025.102476
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    JEL classification:

    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness

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