Determinants of Technology Adoption: Private Value and Peer Effects in Menstrual Cup Take-Up

39 Pages Posted: 29 Mar 2009 Last revised: 9 Jul 2022

See all articles by Emily F. Oster

Emily F. Oster

University of Chicago - Department of Economics; National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER)

Rebecca L. Thornton

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Economics, Students

Date Written: March 2009

Abstract

We estimate the role of benefits and peer effects in technology adoption using data from randomized distribution of menstrual cups in Nepal. Using individual randomization, we estimate causal effects of peer exposure on adoption; using differences in potential returns we estimate effects of benefits. We find both peers and value influence adoption. Using the fact that we observe both trial and usage of the product, we examine the mechanisms driving peer effects. We find that peers matters because individuals learn how to use the technology from their friends, but that they do not affect individual desire to use the cup.

Suggested Citation

Oster, Emily F. and Thornton, Rebecca L., Determinants of Technology Adoption: Private Value and Peer Effects in Menstrual Cup Take-Up (March 2009). NBER Working Paper No. w14828, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1369064

Emily F. Oster (Contact Author)

University of Chicago - Department of Economics ( email )

1126 East 59th Street
Chicago, IL 60637
United States

National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) ( email )

1050 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
United States

Rebecca L. Thornton

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Department of Economics, Students ( email )

Champaign, IL
United States

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