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Does a promise script work to reduce the hypothetical bias? Evidence from an induced value experiment

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  • Qin, Botao

Abstract

This paper explores whether a truth-telling promise can work to reduce the hypothetical bias in preference elicitation. Using an induced value experiment in China with a random nthprice auction, the author finds: 1) Hypothetical bias exists in a random nth-price auction with induced values and making a truth-telling promise can reduce the hypothetical bias. 2) All treatments are demand-revealing except for the hypothetical baseline.

Suggested Citation

  • Qin, Botao, 2019. "Does a promise script work to reduce the hypothetical bias? Evidence from an induced value experiment," Economics Discussion Papers 2019-38, Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW Kiel).
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:ifwedp:201938
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    hypothetical bias; oath; random nth-price auction; induced value experiment;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C90 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - General
    • D44 - Microeconomics - - Market Structure, Pricing, and Design - - - Auctions
    • Q51 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Valuation of Environmental Effects

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