In this course, we survey research which incorporates behavioral and psychological evidence into economics. In particular, we consider how predictions of economic behavior differ when standard homo-economicus assumptions are replaced with psychologically realistic assumptions based on empirical observations from the lab and from the world. 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; time preferences and dynamic inconsistency.

Participants will learn how psychological, cognitive, and social factors affect the economic decisions of individuals and institutions, the consequences of such factors for market outcomes, efficiency and allocations, and their policy relevance. This course is highly recommended for Ph.D. students who would like to write a thesis on behavioral and/or experimental economics.

There are a total of 100 Points, which are divided as follows:

• student presentation and discussion: 40 points
• assignments:10 points
• final exam: 50 points