Measuring discrimination with experiments

Ashley Litwin and Corinne Low

Chapter 7 in Handbook of Experimental Methods in the Social Sciences, 2026, pp 267-319 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Discrimination based on group membership has been documented in numerous settings and on the basis of a diverse set of characteristics. This article reviews the key experimental methods used by economists to measure discrimination, provide insights into its sources, and mitigate its effects. We first summarize common lab experimental methods for detecting discrimination, including economic games and stylized hiring experiments. We then discuss field experimental methods, including audit studies, correspondence studies, and Incentivized Resume Rating (IRR). Throughout, we emphasize the strengths and weaknesses of both lab and field experiments and provide practical guidance for avoiding common design pitfalls. We conclude with suggestions for future research.

Keywords: Discrimination; Lab Experiments; Field Experiments; Gender; Race (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035312627
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