Score contribution per author:
α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count
We consider a planner who chooses between two public policies and ask whether a referendum or a cost benefit analysis leads to higher welfare. We find that a referendum leads to higher welfare than a cost benefit analysis in a "common value" environment. Cost benefit analysis is better in a "private value" environment. (c) 2010 by The University of Chicago. All rights reserved.