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An Introduction to the Economics of Fake Degrees

Author

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  • Gilles Grolleau
  • Tarik Lakhal
  • Naoufel Mzoughi

Abstract

This paper critiques the multifarious ways whereby academic qualifications may be falsified in the international marketplace. The objectives are fourfold: (1) defining the main terms used such as fake degrees and diploma mills; (2) providing a brief history of fake degrees and identifying the factors that explain their recent development; (3) developing a theoretical framework to analyze fake degrees; and (4) exploring the costs and benefits of this activiry and its net impact on a given society. Degrees serve instrumental and ceremonial purposes. It is argued that degree holders may be considered as members of a club. They confer to their holders excludable but non-rival property rights such as abilities, signaling and status. The paper contends that holders of fake degrees can be considered as “free riders” on these property rights, especially the status tied to legitimate degrees.

Suggested Citation

  • Gilles Grolleau & Tarik Lakhal & Naoufel Mzoughi, 2008. "An Introduction to the Economics of Fake Degrees," Journal of Economic Issues, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 42(3), pages 673-693, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:mes:jeciss:v:42:y:2008:i:3:p:673-693
    DOI: 10.1080/00213624.2008.11507173
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    Cited by:

    1. Bo-Christer Björk & Sari Kanto-Karvonen & J. Tuomas Harviainen, 2020. "How Frequently Are Articles in Predatory Open Access Journals Cited," Publications, MDPI, vol. 8(2), pages 1-12, March.
    2. Van Duy Tran & Shingo Ata & Thi Hong Tran & Duc Khai Lam & Hoai Luan Pham, 2023. "Blockchain-Powered Education: A Sustainable Approach for Secured and Connected University Systems," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(21), pages 1-17, November.
    3. Rangi, Pradeep Kumar & Aithal, Sreeramana, 2020. "A Study on Blockchain Technology as a Dominant Feature to Mitigate Reputational Risk for Indian Academic Institutions and Universities," MPRA Paper 105347, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    4. Pu, Shuyi & Lam, Jasmine Siu Lee, 2023. "The benefits of blockchain for digital certificates: A multiple case study analysis," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 72(C).

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