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Do Advisors’ Status and Identity Shape Adherence to Advice?

Author

Listed:
  • Gangadharan, Lata

    (Monash University)

  • Maitra, Pushkar

    (Monash University)

  • Vecci, Joseph

    (University of Gothenburg)

  • Veettil, Prakashan Chellattan

  • Villeval, Marie Claire

    (CNRS)

Abstract

This study examines whether adherence to advice depends on an advisor’s identity and status beyond message content. Using a survey experiment with over 3000 farmers in India, we find that individuals are more likely to follow advice in a social dilemma game when it comes from high-status or in-group advisors, even when the advice diverges from prevailing norms. Admired role models can attenuate the influence of status and identity, though their beneficial effect is not universal. Our experimental findings align with evidence from an agricultural advisory program involving the same participant sample, highlighting the broader real-world relevance of these patterns.

Suggested Citation

  • Gangadharan, Lata & Maitra, Pushkar & Vecci, Joseph & Veettil, Prakashan Chellattan & Villeval, Marie Claire, 2025. "Do Advisors’ Status and Identity Shape Adherence to Advice?," IZA Discussion Papers 18280, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp18280
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • C93 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Field Experiments
    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making
    • O13 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Agriculture; Natural Resources; Environment; Other Primary Products
    • Q16 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Agriculture - - - R&D; Agricultural Technology; Biofuels; Agricultural Extension Services

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