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Self-signaling and social-signaling in giving

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  • Grossman, Zachary

Abstract

Can a Bayesian signaling model explain patterns of giving driven by self-image concern as well as those driven by social-image? I experimentally test the predictions of such a model about how potential givers will respond to a change in the probability that their choice will be implemented. A self-signaler is predicted to respond with increased giving, but he predicted response of a social-signaler is increased giving, no change, or decreased giving depending on the information available to an outside observer. The experiment thus presents a test of the joint, independent and relative effects of social- and self-signaling in giving. The results provide little evidence of self-signaling, but stronger evidence of social-signaling.

Suggested Citation

  • Grossman, Zachary, 2015. "Self-signaling and social-signaling in giving," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 117(C), pages 26-39.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jeborg:v:117:y:2015:i:c:p:26-39
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jebo.2015.05.008
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Giving; Self-image; Self-signaling; Social-image; Social-signaling; Dictator game;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C72 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Noncooperative Games
    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • H4 - Public Economics - - Publicly Provided Goods

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