In-group bias in prison
Erte Xiao (Economics, Monash University)

September 20, 2017, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Department of Philosophy, Monash University

Room N602, Level 6 of Menzies Building (Building 11)
20 Chancellors Walk, Monash University, Clayton
Melbourne
Australia

This will be an accessible event, including organized related activities

Details

Abstract: We conduct a field experiment in a typical Chinese jail to examine in-group bias within groups holding a stigmatized identity. Inmates are provided with an opportunity to work for a charity. We find evidence of both pro-sociality and in-group favoritism among prisoners. Inmates increase their effort when their productivity is associated with a charitable contribution. They work harder when the beneficiary carries the prisoner identity, indicating the existence of in-group favoritism. On the other hand, increased duration of incarceration weakens the inmates’ in-group favoritism. Inmates who have remained in prison longer are less likely to try to help an in-group member, yet this negative effect is not observed when the beneficiary is an outsider. We argue that negative in-group interaction among inmates explains this effect. Our findings highlight the importance of social interaction in the formation of in-group bias.

Supporting material

Add supporting material (slides, programs, etc.)

Reminders

Registration

No

Who is attending?

No one has said they will attend yet.

Will you attend this event?


Let us know so we can notify you of any change of plan.