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The “Spite†Dilemma in Voluntary Contribution Mechanism Experiments

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  • Tatsuyoshi Saijo

    (University of Tsukuba, Osaka University)

  • Hideki Nakamura

    (Fukushima University)

Abstract

This article explains deviations from formal expectations regarding choice behavior in settings where economic rationality (i.e., own payoff maximization) dictates either cooperating (full contribution) or free riding (no contribution) in the provision of public goods via the voluntary contribution mechanism. The authors find that the difference between full contribution and the observed level of contribution is greater than or equal to the corresponding difference when free riding is the best strategy. This surprising result is interpreted as the “spiteful†behavior of subjects whose first priority is not the total amount of payoff they receive but the ranking among them.

Suggested Citation

  • Tatsuyoshi Saijo & Hideki Nakamura, 1995. "The “Spite†Dilemma in Voluntary Contribution Mechanism Experiments," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 39(3), pages 535-560, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jocore:v:39:y:1995:i:3:p:535-560
    DOI: 10.1177/0022002795039003007
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    References listed on IDEAS

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