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Negative Stereotypes and Willingness to Change Them: Testing Theories of Discrimination in South Africa

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  • Aguero, Jorge M.

Abstract

This paper proposes a new test to distinguish between the two leading theories of discrimination: preference versus information. Discrimination based on preferences occurs when people behave as if they refuse to change their stereotypes about the capabilities of discriminated individuals. Those who discriminate based on information are willing to alter their stereotypes. Using data from a quasi-experiment in South Africa, I test for discrimination against women and non-whites. The preliminary results show no discrimination against the former. In the case of racial discrimination, players' stereotypes benefit non-whites instead of white opponents, but they are reluctant to change their impression for the former. However, they are willing to change their initial impression about white opponents. This has severe implications about the permanency of affirmative action policies.

Suggested Citation

  • Aguero, Jorge M., 2005. "Negative Stereotypes and Willingness to Change Them: Testing Theories of Discrimination in South Africa," Staff Papers 12661, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:ags:wisagr:12661
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.12661
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    Keywords

    Labor and Human Capital;

    JEL classification:

    • J7 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Discrimination
    • J79 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Discrimination - - - Other
    • C99 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Other
    • N37 - Economic History - - Labor and Consumers, Demography, Education, Health, Welfare, Income, Wealth, Religion, and Philanthropy - - - Africa; Oceania

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