Temperature’s Toll on Decision-Making

A-Tier
Journal: Economic Journal
Year: 2024
Volume: 134
Issue: 663
Pages: 2746-2771

Authors (4)

Michelle Escobar Carias (not in RePEc) David W Johnston (Monash University) Rachel Knott (not in RePEc) Rohan Sweeney (not in RePEc)

Score contribution per author:

1.005 = (α=2.01 / 4 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

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

Abstract

Does temperature affect decision-making abilities and rationality? Using Indonesian data, we estimate how risky choices, impatience and rational choice violations vary with exposure to temperature. We show that hot weather temporarily increases rational choice violations and impatience, but does not affect risk-related decisions. These effects are primarily driven by nighttime rather than daytime temperatures. We provide suggestive evidence that the mechanism behind these effects is decreased sleep quality, affecting cognition the following day, particularly math skills. These skills are critical for rational and utility-maximising decision-making. Effects are largest for economically disadvantaged households and in areas with low rates of air-conditioning.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:oup:econjl:v:134:y:2024:i:663:p:2746-2771.
Journal Field
General
Author Count
4
Added to Database
2026-01-25