Observation and contagion effects in cooperation: An experimental investigation
Date
2018-04-13Abstract
We experimentally disentangle two potential sources for endogenous social interactions effects. By comparing groups where the aggregate behavior is publicly observable with those where it is not we can measure the size of any endogenous observation effect. By comparing connected with disconnected groups we can measure the size of any endogenous contagion effect. Results are provided for both a coordination game and social dilemma. We find strong evidence of an endogenous observation effect in the coordination game but not social dilemma. We find no evidence of an endogenous contagion effect in either game. While our results point towards a conformity effect we argue that information on group behavior primarily acts as a coordinating device which may be reflected in changes in beliefs.
Description
The file attached to this record is the author's final peer reviewed version. The Publisher's final version can be found by following the DOI link.
Citation : Cartwright, E. and Singh, T.B. (2018) Observation and contagion effects in cooperation: An experimental investigation. Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Economics, 74, pp.151-160
Research Institute : Institute for Applied Economics and Social Value (IAESV)
Peer Reviewed : Yes