Top vs. Bottom: Experimental Evidence on Priming, Information, and Redistribution Preferences

Luna Bellani () and Nona Bledow
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Luna Bellani: Ulm University

No 18066, IZA Discussion Papers from Institute of Labor Economics (IZA)

Abstract: This paper examines how priming and information about inequality affect support for redistribution. Using a large-scale randomized survey experiment in Germany, we vary both the focus (top vs. bottom of the income distribution) and the delivery (subtle priming vs. factual information) of inequality cues. We document three key findings. First, simply directing respondents' attention to different ends of the distribution shifts redistributive preferences—especially when focusing on the rich. Second, information about top incomes has a larger effect than equivalent information about the poor, revealing asymmetric responses. Third, while both priming and information temporarily influence attitudes, these effects fade within one year. Our findings help reconcile mixed results in the literature and underscore the importance of framing, informational content, and message durability in shaping redistribution preferences.

Keywords: survey experiments; redistribution preferences; income inequality; framing effects (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: C93 D31 H24 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025-08
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-exp
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