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Designing effective nudges that satisfy ethical constraints: the case of environmentally responsible behaviour

Author

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  • Denis Hilton

    (University of Toulouse)

  • Nicolas Treich

    (University of Toulouse)

  • Gaetan Lazzara

    (Conseil Economique, Social et Environnemental (CESER) Sud Paca Region)

  • Philippe Tendil

    (Aix-Marseille Provence Métropole)

Abstract

We discuss what makes a “good” environmental nudge from the policy maker’s point of view. We first delineate what is paternalistic about environmental nudges. We then discuss the effectiveness of nudges, including their paradoxical effects on the targeted behaviour, as well as possible collateral effects on the decision-maker’s wellbeing. We also discuss why the libertarian and ethical aspect of nudges may render them more, and not less, attractive as policy instruments and decision aids. We conclude by discussing accuracy and privacy concerns of information-based nudges, and with some recommendations for the design of effective and ethical nudges.

Suggested Citation

  • Denis Hilton & Nicolas Treich & Gaetan Lazzara & Philippe Tendil, 2018. "Designing effective nudges that satisfy ethical constraints: the case of environmentally responsible behaviour," Mind & Society: Cognitive Studies in Economics and Social Sciences, Springer;Fondazione Rosselli, vol. 17(1), pages 27-38, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:minsoc:v:17:y:2018:i:1:d:10.1007_s11299-019-00201-8
    DOI: 10.1007/s11299-019-00201-8
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    2. Hristijan Popovski & Alison Young, 2023. "Small Things in Everyday Places: Homelessness, Dissent and Affordances in Public Space," The British Journal of Criminology, Centre for Crime and Justice Studies, vol. 63(3), pages 727-747.

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