People Are More Moral in Uncertain Environments

S-Tier
Journal: Econometrica
Year: 2025
Volume: 93
Issue: 2
Pages: 439-462

Authors (2)

Score contribution per author:

4.022 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 4.0x S-tier

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

Abstract

We conduct a series of experiments and document a robust behavioral pattern whereby people behave more morally in uncertain environments than degenerate deterministic ones. We show that this pattern is weakened when the moral implication of behavior is diminished or when uncertainty pertains to others rather than oneself. These findings are incompatible with standard models that respect dominance. We propose a mechanism based on the anxiety aspect of uncertain environments whereby people act morally as if their moral behavior can help deliver a better outcome. We further delve into the complexity aspect of uncertainty to arrive at a more comprehensive understanding of these findings.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:wly:emetrp:v:93:y:2025:i:2:p:439-462
Journal Field
General
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-29