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Guilt aversion and moral commitment: Eve versus Adam

Author

Listed:
  • Giovanni Di Bartolomeo

    (Sapienza University of Rome
    University of Antwerp
    Sapienza University of Rome)

  • Martin Dufwenberg

    (University of Arizona
    University of Gothenburg
    CESifo)

  • Stefano Papa

    (University of Rome Tor Vergata
    Sapienza University of Rome)

  • Laura Razzolini

    (University of Alabama
    University of Arizona)

Abstract

We explore gender differences in individuals’ motivations. We focus on guilt aversion and moral commitment. Our experiment supports the idea that men are more guilt-averse than women, while moral motivations drive more women’s actions in a random dictator game with pre-play communication.

Suggested Citation

  • Giovanni Di Bartolomeo & Martin Dufwenberg & Stefano Papa & Laura Razzolini, 2024. "Guilt aversion and moral commitment: Eve versus Adam," Journal of the Economic Science Association, Springer;Economic Science Association, vol. 10(2), pages 578-594, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jesaex:v:10:y:2024:i:2:d:10.1007_s40881-024-00180-8
    DOI: 10.1007/s40881-024-00180-8
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Gender; Guilt aversion; Promises; Evolutionary psychology;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • A13 - General Economics and Teaching - - General Economics - - - Relation of Economics to Social Values
    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • D03 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Behavioral Microeconomics: Underlying Principles
    • D64 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Altruism; Philanthropy; Intergenerational Transfers

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