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The effects of economic austerity on pro-sociality: Evidence from Greece

Author

Listed:
  • Nicholas Sambanis

    (Department of Political Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA)

  • Elena Nikolova

    (College of Interdisciplinary Studies, Zayed University, Dubai, UAE)

  • Anna Schultz

    (Independent researcher)

Abstract

The European sovereign debt crisis resulted in policies of fiscal austerity and economic downturn in Greece, marked by a prolonged period of recession and high unemployment. This article explores the social impact of the economic crisis, focusing on its effects on altruism using new household-level survey data and quasi-behavioral outcomes. We focus on the effects of joblessness, the most severe form of economic hardship imposed as a result of the crisis. Our findings reveal a strong relationship between job loss in the household and decreased altruism. We provide experimental evidence of these effects and of in-group bias in charitable giving as a result of joblessness. Our results show that joblessness intensifies survey respondents’ preferences for national as opposed to foreign charities.

Suggested Citation

  • Nicholas Sambanis & Elena Nikolova & Anna Schultz, 2022. "The effects of economic austerity on pro-sociality: Evidence from Greece," European Union Politics, , vol. 23(4), pages 567-589, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:eeupol:v:23:y:2022:i:4:p:567-589
    DOI: 10.1177/14651165221120527
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    References listed on IDEAS

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