Document Type
Article
Publication Date
7-30-2026
Abstract
We report the results of three preregistered experiments examining the effects of negative random endowment shocks on generosity. Using a dictator game, we show that generosity is greater towards those who experience a negative random shock, and this effect is larger than the effect inequality has on giving. Our data provide evidence that people do not expect this additional level of generosity after a shock and that injunctive norms cannot explain it either. Taken together, our findings suggest that the (high) level of generosity observed after negative random shocks is unexpected and exceeds what people consider to be socially appropriate. Keywords: generosity, dictator game, negative random shocks, beliefs, injunctive norms.
Recommended Citation
Bejerano, H., Gillet, J., & Rodriguez-Lara, I. (2026). Generosity after negative random shocks. ESI Working Paper 26-09. https://digitalcommons.chapman.edu/esi_working_papers/440/
Comments
ESI Working Paper 26-09