Conformism, Social Norms and the Dynamics of Assimilation

Gonzalo Olcina (), Fabrizio Panebianco () and Yves Zenou
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Fabrizio Panebianco: Bocconi University

No 11436, IZA Discussion Papers from Institute of Labor Economics (IZA)

Abstract: We consider a model where each individual (or ethnic minority) is embedded in a network of relationships and decides whether or not she wants to be assimilated to the majority norm. Each individual wants her behavior to agree with her personal ideal action or norm but also wants her behavior to be as close as possible to the average assimilation behavior of her peers. We show that there is always convergence to a steady-state and characterize it. We also show that different assimilation norms may emerge in steady state depending on the structure of the network. We then consider the role of cultural and government leaders in the assimilation process of ethnic minorities and an optimal tax/subsidy policy which aim is to reach a certain level of assimilation in the population.

Keywords: cultural leader; assimilation; networks; social norms; peer pressure (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D83 D85 J15 Z13 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Pages: 81 pages
Date: 2018-03
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-evo, nep-mig, nep-net, nep-soc and nep-ure
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (4)

Published - published as 'Conformism, social pressure, and the dynamics of integration' in: Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, 2024, 2020, 279 - 304

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Working Paper: Conformism, Social Norms and the Dynamics of Assimilation (2017)
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