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Reciprocity models revisited: intention factors and reference values

Author

Listed:
  • Janna Hinz

    (University of Hamburg)

  • Andreas Nicklisch

    (University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons, and Research Unit “Needs based Justice and Distribution Procedures”)

  • Mey-Ling Sommer

    (Helmut Schmidt University)

Abstract

We present a test of the two most established reciprocity models, an intention factor model and a reference value model. We test characteristic elements of each model in a series of twelve mini-ultimatum games. Results from online experiments show major differences between actual behavior and predictions of both models: the distance of actual offers to the proposed reference value provides a poor measure for the kindness of offers, while a comparison of offers with extreme offers as suggested by the intention factor model makes offers indiscriminable in richer settings. We discuss possible combinations of both models better describing our observations.

Suggested Citation

  • Janna Hinz & Andreas Nicklisch & Mey-Ling Sommer, 2024. "Reciprocity models revisited: intention factors and reference values," International Journal of Game Theory, Springer;Game Theory Society, vol. 53(2), pages 299-324, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jogath:v:53:y:2024:i:2:d:10.1007_s00182-024-00898-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s00182-024-00898-z
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Experiments; Intentions; Mini-ultimatum game; Reference value; Reciprocity models;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C52 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Model Evaluation, Validation, and Selection
    • C72 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Noncooperative Games
    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior

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