Promises and partner-switch

Giovanni Di Bartolomeo (), Martin Dufwenberg and Stefano Papa

Journal of the Economic Science Association, 2023, vol. 9, issue 1, No 7, 77-89

Abstract: Abstract Building on a partner-switching mechanism, we experimentally test two theories that posit different reasons why promises breed trust and cooperation. The expectation-based explanation (EBE) operates via belief-dependent guilt aversion, while the commitment-based explanation (CBE) suggests that promises offer commitment power via a (belief-independent) preference to keep one’s word. Previous research performed a similar test, which we argue should be interpreted as concerning informal agreements rather than (unilateral) promises.

Keywords: Promises; Partner-switching; Expectations; Commitment; Guilt; Informal agreements (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A13 C91 D01 D64 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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DOI: 10.1007/s40881-023-00128-4

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