Citizens in Latin America and the Caribbean often associate corruption with economic crises. Since 2016, survey data show that individuals who believe their country’s economy has worsened are significantly more likely to say that most politicians are corrupt. But are politicians actually more corrupt when the economy is bad, or are citizens just more sensitive to misconduct … [Read more...] about When the Economy Booms, So Do Corruption and Impunity
How Air Pollution Affects High- and Low-Income Workers Differently
Can workers avoid the damaging effects of high levels of air pollution? The answer, it appears, is overwhelmingly linked to socio-economic status. Our recent study looks at how workers adjust their daily labor supply in response to increased concentrations of fine particulate matter known at PM 2.5, which originates, among other sources, from gasoline- and diesel-powered … [Read more...] about How Air Pollution Affects High- and Low-Income Workers Differently
Nudging for Prevention in Colombia: How to Improve HPV Vaccination Rates
Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in low- and middle-income countries, and the safe and effective HPV vaccine is key to prevention. But despite significant efforts to promote vaccination through national immunization programs and free access, a considerable segment of the population remains unvaccinated—a challenge that has much … [Read more...] about Nudging for Prevention in Colombia: How to Improve HPV Vaccination Rates
Why Do Workers in Ecuador Go Formal at Age 50? And What Do Pensions Have to Do With It?
In Latin America and the Caribbean, where 55% of workers labor informally, some individuals face a crucial decision throughout their lives: whether to work in the formal or informal sector. This decision has important implications for their wages, the amount of taxes they pay, and their overall financial well-being. It is also crucial in determining whether they qualify for … [Read more...] about Why Do Workers in Ecuador Go Formal at Age 50? And What Do Pensions Have to Do With It?
Can a Behavioral Economics Course Help Overcome Biases and Improve Decision-Making?
We are all familiar with the biases that can lead policymakers and professionals astray. Doctors and lawyers may be overconfident; teachers may have preferences for or against students based on gender, race, and sexual orientation; and judges on judicial panels may be influenced by the ideological orientation of their colleagues. Overconfidence and social preferences can all … [Read more...] about Can a Behavioral Economics Course Help Overcome Biases and Improve Decision-Making?