Optimal Contracting with Subjective Evaluation

S-Tier
Journal: American Economic Review
Year: 2003
Volume: 93
Issue: 1
Pages: 216-240

Authors (1)

Bentley W. MacLeod (not in RePEc)

Score contribution per author:

8.043 = (α=2.01 / 1 authors) × 4.0x S-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

This paper extends the standard principal-agent model to allow for subjective evaluation. The optimal contract results in more compressed pay relative to the case with verifiable performance measures. Moreover, discrimination against an individual implies lower pay and performance, suggesting that the extent of discrimination as measured after controlling for performance may underestimate the level of true discrimination. Finally, the optimal contract entails the use of bonus pay rather than the threat of dismissal, hence neither "efficiency wages" nor the right to dismiss an employee are necessary ingredients for an optimal incentive contract.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:aea:aecrev:v:93:y:2003:i:1:p:216-240
Journal Field
General
Author Count
1
Added to Database
2026-01-25