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Do You Know That I Am Biased? An Experiment

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  • Ludwig, Sandra
  • Nafziger, Julia

Abstract

This experiment explores whether individuals know that other people are biased. We confirm that overestimation of abilities is a pervasive problem, but observe that most people are not aware of it, i.e. they think others are unbiased. We investigate several explanations for this result. As a first one, we discuss a possible unfamiliarity with the task and the subjects' inability to distinguish between random mistakes and a real bias. Second, we show how the relation between a subject's belief about others and his belief about himself might be driven by a false consensus effect or self-correction mechanism. Third, we identify a self-serving bias when comparing how a subject evaluates his own and other people's biases.

Suggested Citation

  • Ludwig, Sandra & Nafziger, Julia, 2007. "Do You Know That I Am Biased? An Experiment," Bonn Econ Discussion Papers 11/2007, University of Bonn, Bonn Graduate School of Economics (BGSE).
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:bonedp:112007
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Eberlein, Marion & Przemeck, Judith, 2008. "Whom will you choose? - Collaborator Selection and Selector’s Self-Prediction," Bonn Econ Discussion Papers 12/2008, University of Bonn, Bonn Graduate School of Economics (BGSE).

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Bias; Overconfidence; Beliefs; Experimental Economics; Self-Serving Bias;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness
    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • D01 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Microeconomic Behavior: Underlying Principles

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