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Persistence of individual and social preferences in rural settings

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  • Castillo, José Gabriel
  • Hernandez, Manuel A.

Abstract

Preferences play a key role in decision-making and are generally assumed as time-invariant in economic modeling despite the mixed empirical evidence. We examine the stability of individual and social preferences in rural settings using the COVID-19 pandemic as a major global shock. We employ a unique longitudinal dataset comprising 1,262 smallholder households, based on interviews with household heads conducted across four survey waves between 2019 and 2022. We find a temporal, two-year shift in risk tolerance, while interpersonal trust and generosity perceptions show a sustained deterioration over three years. We explore possible variations by household characteristics and the degree of exposure to the virus, self-confinement, and extreme weather events.

Suggested Citation

  • Castillo, José Gabriel & Hernandez, Manuel A., 2025. "Persistence of individual and social preferences in rural settings," IFPRI discussion papers 2345, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI).
    • Handle: RePEc:fpr:ifprid:175452
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