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Covenants without Swords

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  • Cristina Bicchieri

    (Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA cb36@andrew.cmu.edu)

Abstract

In one-shot social dilemma experiments, cooperation rates dramatically increase if subjects are allowed to communicate before making a choice. There are two possible explanations for this `communication effect'. One is that communication enhances group identity, the other is that communication elicits social norms. I discuss both views and argue in favor of a norm-based explanation.

Suggested Citation

  • Cristina Bicchieri, 2002. "Covenants without Swords," Rationality and Society, , vol. 14(2), pages 192-228, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ratsoc:v:14:y:2002:i:2:p:192-228
    DOI: 10.1177/1043463102014002003
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