Scandinavian Working Papers in Economics
Research Papers in Economics,
Stockholm University, Department of Economics
No 2003:3: Promises & Partnership
Gary Charness () and Martin Dufwenberg ()
Additional contact information
Gary Charness: University of California at Santa Barbara, Postal: UCSB, Santa Barbara , CA 93106, USA
Martin Dufwenberg: Dept. of Economics, Stockholm University, Postal: Department of Economics, Stockholm University, S-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
Abstract: We examine, experimentally and theoretically, how communication within a partnership may mitigate the problem (highlighted in contract theory) of hidden action. What is the form and content of the communication? Which model of decision-making can capture the impact of communication? We consider free-form communication, measure beliefs (about actions and beliefs), and examine which motivational forces influence subjects. We find they harbor belief-dependent preferences that can be captured using psychological game theory. In particular, agents are influenced by guilt aversion, which suggests a theory of why and how communication influences behavior in which statements of intent and resulting expectations play a special role. This has bearing on how to understand partnerships and contracts.
Keywords: Promises; partnership; contract theory; behavioral economics; hidden action; moral hazard; lies; social preferences; psychological game theory; guilt aversion; reciprocity; fairness
JEL-codes: A13; B49; C72; C91; D63; D64; J41
46 pages, February 13, 2003
Full text files
wp03_03.pdf
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