Testing Consumer Theory: Evidence from a Natural Field Experiment
SPII 2017 – 309
29 Pages Posted: 13 Oct 2017
Date Written: October 13, 2017
Abstract
We present evidence from a natural field experiment designed to shed light on whether individual behavior is consistent with a neoclassical model of utility maximization subject to budget constraints. We do this through the lens of a field experiment on charitable giving. We find that the behavior of at least 80% of individuals, on both the extensive and intensive margins, can be rationalized within a standard neoclassical choice model in which individuals have preferences, defined over own consumption and their contribution towards the charitable good, satisfying the axioms of revealed preference.
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation