Everyday Econometricians: Selection Neglect and Overoptimism When Learning from Others

B-Tier
Journal: American Economic Journal: Microeconomics
Year: 2024
Volume: 16
Issue: 3
Pages: 162-98

Score contribution per author:

0.670 = (α=2.01 / 3 authors) × 1.0x B-tier

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

Abstract

This study explores selection neglect in an experimental investment game where individuals can learn from others' outcomes. Experiment 1 examines aggregate-level equilibrium behavior. We find strong evidence of selection neglect and corroborate several comparative static predictions of Jehiel's (2018) model, showing that the severity of the bias is aggravated by the sophistication of other individuals and moderated when information is more correlated across individuals. Experiment 2 focuses on individual decision-making, isolating the influence of beliefs from possible confounding factors. This allows us to classify individuals according to their degree of naivety and explore the limits of, and potential remedies for, selection neglect.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:aea:aejmic:v:16:y:2024:i:3:p:162-98
Journal Field
General
Author Count
3
Added to Database
2026-01-24