The limits of social recognition: Experimental evidence from blood donors

Lorenz Goette and Egon Tripodi

Journal of Public Economics, 2024, vol. 231, issue C

Abstract: Does social recognition motivate prosocial individuals? We run large-scale experiments at Italy’s main blood donors association, evaluating social recognition through social media and peer groups against a simple ask to donate. Across several studies, we find that the simple ask is at least as effective as offering social recognition. In a survey experiment with blood donors we show that socially recognized donations signal not only altruism but also image-seeking. This can lead to social recognition being less effective, or even counterproductive, when offered to those who are already perceived as good citizens.

Keywords: Prosocial behavior; Blood donations; Social recognition; Observability; Natural field experiment; Social media; WhatsApp (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:pubeco:v:231:y:2024:i:c:s0047272724000057

DOI: 10.1016/j.jpubeco.2024.105069

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