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Random Selection in Politics, Science and Society: Applications and Institutional Embeddedness

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  • Bruno S. Frey
  • Lasse Steiner

Abstract

This paper discusses and proposes random selection as a component in decision-making in society. Random procedures have played a significant role in history, especially in classical Greece and the medieval city-states of Italy. We examine the important positive features of decisions by random mechanisms. Random processes allow representativeness with respect to individuals and groups. They significantly reduce opportunities to influence political decisions by means of bribery and corruption and decrease the large expenses associated with today’s democratic election campaigns. Random mechanisms can be applied fruitfully to a wide range of fields, including politics, the judiciary, the economy, science and the cultural sector. However, it is important that random selection processes are embedded in appropriately designed institutions.

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  • Bruno S. Frey & Lasse Steiner, 2014. "Random Selection in Politics, Science and Society: Applications and Institutional Embeddedness," CREMA Working Paper Series 2014-09, Center for Research in Economics, Management and the Arts (CREMA).
    • Handle: RePEc:cra:wpaper:2014-09
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Randomness in decision-making
      by chris dillow in Stumbling and Mumbling on 2014-03-25 19:24:19

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    Cited by:

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    Keywords

    Random selection; lot; democracy; representativeness; corruption;
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