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Research with experimental games

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  • Cecile Jackson

    (School of Development Studies, University of East Anglia, Norwich)

Abstract

Experimental methods in general, and games in particular, are increasingly significant in development economics, but have had rather a limited and partial engagement with anthropology. Given the multidisciplinary character of development studies, it is timely to consider the potential of experimental games for multi-methods development research. Here I give a brief account of experimental economics and key games, for newcomers, followed by a critical discussion of the game methods as applied in a large and influential set of cross-cultural studies by (predominantly) anthropologists working with evolutionist paradigms. I conclude with a wider reflection on core assumptions in the experimental approach which need re-thinking from a broader base in social theory.

Suggested Citation

  • Cecile Jackson, 2011. "Research with experimental games," Progress in Development Studies, , vol. 11(3), pages 229-241, July.
  • Handle: RePEc:sae:prodev:v:11:y:2011:i:3:p:229-241
    DOI: 10.1177/146499341001100304
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    References listed on IDEAS

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