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Behavioral Science and Public Policy

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 October 2020

Cass R. Sunstein
Affiliation:
Harvard University, Massachusetts

Summary

Behavioral science is playing an increasing role in public policy, and it is raising new questions about fundamental issues - the role of government, freedom of choice, paternalism, and human welfare. In diverse nations, public officials are using behavioral findings to combat serious problems - poverty, air pollution, highway safety, COVID-19, discrimination, employment, climate change, and occupational health. Exploring theory and practice, this Element attempts to provide one-stop shopping for those who are new to the area and for those who are familiar with it. With reference to nudges, taxes, mandates, and bans, it offers concrete examples of behaviorally informed policies. It also engages the fundamental questions, include the proper analysis of human welfare in light of behavioral findings. It offers a plea for respecting freedom of choice - so long as people's choices are adequately informed and free from behavioral biases.
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Behavioral Science and Public Policy
  • Cass R. Sunstein, Harvard University, Massachusetts
  • Online ISBN: 9781108973144
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Behavioral Science and Public Policy
  • Cass R. Sunstein, Harvard University, Massachusetts
  • Online ISBN: 9781108973144
Available formats
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To save content items to your account, please confirm that you agree to abide by our usage policies. If this is the first time you use this feature, you will be asked to authorise Cambridge Core to connect with your account. Find out more about saving content to Google Drive.

Behavioral Science and Public Policy
  • Cass R. Sunstein, Harvard University, Massachusetts
  • Online ISBN: 9781108973144
Available formats
×