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Help, Prejudice and Headscarves

Author

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  • Artavia-Mora, Luis

    (ISS, Erasmus University Rotterdam)

  • Bedi, Arjun S.

    (ISS, Erasmus University Rotterdam)

  • Rieger, Matthias

    (ISS, Erasmus University Rotterdam)

Abstract

This paper employs a natural field experiment in the Netherlands to test whether individuals intuitively help strangers with different group identities. We implement time manipulations in an everyday task to stimulate intuitive versus deliberate decision-making and thereafter examine helpfulness towards a female stranger with in-group (native) or out-group (Muslim) appearance. We find that time delay decreases helping rates. In contrast, regardless of time manipulation, out-group appearance does not influence helping rates. Overall, subjects are intuitively predisposed to help, independent of identity. We discuss our findings with respect to the literature on in-group favoritism and the cognitive origins of human cooperation.

Suggested Citation

  • Artavia-Mora, Luis & Bedi, Arjun S. & Rieger, Matthias, 2018. "Help, Prejudice and Headscarves," IZA Discussion Papers 11460, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp11460
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    help; cooperation; in-group favoritism; Muslim; dual-process of cognition; natural field experiment; The Netherlands;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D03 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Behavioral Microeconomics: Underlying Principles
    • D63 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Equity, Justice, Inequality, and Other Normative Criteria and Measurement
    • D64 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Altruism; Philanthropy; Intergenerational Transfers

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