Understanding people’s motivations (altruism, reciprocity, inequality aversion as well as self-interest) is essential to being able to predict economic behavior. Experiments are a tool so that people’s behavior can be observed under controlled conditions. In this course, we develop and deepen students’ understanding of the experimental method of investigation in economics. Furthermore, we survey research which incorporates behavioral and psychological evidence into economics based on empirical observations from the lab and from the field. We also consider the implications of the modified models for market outcomes and public policy. Topics include (but are not limited to) fairness, altruism, and reciprocity; preferences for redistribution; heuristics and cognitive biases; nudging; and social identity.

Attendance is compulsory. Students are required to attend 80% of the total amount of class contact hours.

• Mid-term exam 40%
• Homework assignments 20%
• Final exam 40%