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What is the standard of care in experimental development economics?

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  • Marcos Picchio

Abstract

A central feature of experimental development economics is the use of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effectiveness of prospective socioeconomic interventions. The use of RCTs in development economics raises a host of ethical issues which are just beginning to be explored. In this article, I address one ethical issue in particular: the routine use of the status quo as a control when designing and conducting a development RCT. Drawing on the literature on the principle of standard care in medical research ethics, as well as considerations of distributive justice in non-ideal circumstances, I argue that the practice of using the status quo as a control is ethically justifiable. However, I add an important qualification based on the natural duty of rescue to address the concern that my account is overly permissive.

Suggested Citation

  • Marcos Picchio, 2024. "What is the standard of care in experimental development economics?," Politics, Philosophy & Economics, , vol. 23(2), pages 205-226, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:pophec:v:23:y:2024:i:2:p:205-226
    DOI: 10.1177/1470594X231181655
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    5. DeMartino, George F., 2011. "The Economist's Oath: On the Need for and Content of Professional Economic Ethics," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780199730568.
    6. William Easterly, 2009. "Can the West Save Africa?," Journal of Economic Literature, American Economic Association, vol. 47(2), pages 373-447, June.
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