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Information and sin goods: Experimental evidence on cigarettes

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  • Johanna Catherine Maclean
  • John Buckell

Abstract

We test the importance of information source on consumer choice in the context of sin goods, specifically electronic and tobacco cigarettes, among adult smokers. We proxy choice with intentions to vape and quit smoking in the next 30 days. We experimentally vary the information source: government, private companies, physicians, and no source. Our findings suggest that information source matters in the context of cigarettes choice for adult smokers. Private companies appear to be an important information source for cigarettes among adult smokers.

Suggested Citation

  • Johanna Catherine Maclean & John Buckell, 2021. "Information and sin goods: Experimental evidence on cigarettes," Health Economics, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 30(2), pages 289-310, February.
  • Handle: RePEc:wly:hlthec:v:30:y:2021:i:2:p:289-310
    DOI: 10.1002/hec.4189
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    1. Chris Sampson’s journal round-up for 8th March 2021
      by Chris Sampson in The Academic Health Economists' Blog on 2021-03-08 12:00:01

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