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Temperature and Cognitive Performance: Evidence from Mental Arithmetic Training

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  • Benjamin Krebs

    (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)

Abstract

With rising average temperatures and extreme heat events becoming more frequent, understanding the ramifications for cognitive performance is essential. I estimate the effect of outside air temperature on performance in mental arithmetic training games. Using data from 31,000 individuals and 1.15 million games played, I analyze frequent engagement in a cognitively challenging task in a non-stressful and familiar environment. I find that, above a threshold of 16.5 $$^{\circ }$$ ∘ C, a 1 $$^{\circ }$$ ∘ C increase in outside air temperature leads to a performance reduction of 0.13%. The effect is mostly driven by individuals living in relatively cold areas, who are less adapted to hot temperatures.

Suggested Citation

  • Benjamin Krebs, 2024. "Temperature and Cognitive Performance: Evidence from Mental Arithmetic Training," Environmental & Resource Economics, Springer;European Association of Environmental and Resource Economists, vol. 87(7), pages 2035-2065, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:enreec:v:87:y:2024:i:7:d:10.1007_s10640-024-00881-y
    DOI: 10.1007/s10640-024-00881-y
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Air temperature; Cognitive performance; Climate change;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • Q54 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Climate; Natural Disasters and their Management; Global Warming
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity

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