Work

The limits of social recognition: Experimental evidence from blood donors

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Does social recognition motivate prosocial individuals? We run large-scale experiments at Italy’s main blood donors association, evaluating social recognition through social media and peer groups against a simple ask to donate. Across several studies, we find that the simple ask is at least as effective as offering social recognition. In a survey experiment with blood donors we show that socially recognized donations signal not only altruism but also image-seeking. This can lead to social recognition being less effective, or even counterproductive, when offered to those who are already perceived as good citizens.

Source: Journal of Public Economics

DOI: 10.1016/j.jpubeco.2024.105069

Authors: Lorenz Goette, Egon Tripodi

Institutions: National University of Singapore, Hertie School

Language: English

Topic: Blood donation and transfusion practices

Subfield: Management of Technology and Innovation

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,800

Funders: Queen Mary University of London, University of Essex, Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, Stifterverband