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Persuasion Bias in Science: An Experiment on Strategic Sample Selection

Author

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  • Arianna Degan
  • Ming Li
  • Huan Xie

Abstract

We experimentally test a game theoretical model of researcher-evaluator interaction à la Di Tillio, Ottaviani, and Sørensen (2017a). Researcher may strategically manipulate sample selection using his private information in order to achieve favourable research outcomes and thereby obtain approval from Evaluator. Our experimental results con?rm the theoretical predictions for Researcher’s behaviour but ?nd signi?cant deviations from them about Evaluator’s behaviour. However, comparative statics are mostly consistent with the theoretical predictions. In the welfare analysis, we ?nd that Researcher always bene?ts from the possibility of manipulation, in contrast to the theoretical prediction that he sometimes is hurt by it. Consistent with theoretical predictions, Evaluator bene?ts from the possibility of Researcher’s manipulation when she leans towards approval or is approximately neutral but is hurt by that possibility when she leans against approval.

Suggested Citation

  • Arianna Degan & Ming Li & Huan Xie, 2019. "Persuasion Bias in Science: An Experiment on Strategic Sample Selection," CIRANO Working Papers 2019s-24, CIRANO.
    • Handle: RePEc:cir:cirwor:2019s-24
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    File URL: https://cirano.qc.ca/files/publications/2019s-24.pdf
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    Keywords

    Persuasion Bias; Research Conduct; Manipulation; Sample Selection; Randomized Controlled Trials;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C72 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Noncooperative Games
    • C92 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Group Behavior
    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness

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