Research Analysis
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Can Behavioral Economists Nudge Young Hands Out of the Cookie Jar?
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Using incentives to influence children’s food choices may have an impact that extends beyond a one-time choice. Leveraging behavioral economic techniques, like incentives, could help encourage children to choose and consume healthier foods.
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The Unintended Consequences of Subsidized Irrigation Conservation
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Government-led, cost share programs enabling US farmers to adopt water-saving irrigation systems may actually be increasing water use. Changing the way water rights are defined might help.
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The Unintended Consequence of Mandatory Child Care in Chile
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A new paper from the National Bureau of Economic Research estimates the impact of mandatory childcare on the wages of women in Chile.
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Philosophy vs. Science in New York Vaccine Debate
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New York State has a substantial and diverse population with diverse reasons for objecting to compulsory vaccination. A recent article discusses the options available to the state in dealing with philosophical objectors when public health and safety are on the line.
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Economic Elites in the Driver’s Seat
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Based on a new dataset of policy changes, Martin Gilens and Benjamin Page bring new evidence to cross-examine American politics: how democratic is American democracy?
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Occupational Licenses: Reason for Caution or Celebration?
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A new study finds occupational licenses increase wages, employment, and benefits of those with licenses. While good for entrenched workers, these licenses could be problematic for consumers and non-licensed workers.
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It’s Back to School for Head Start Parents
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New research shows that, for some parents, the Head Start program can improve educational outcomes but has no impact on employment outcomes.
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The Economic Impact of Frugality: Evidence from Tobacco Farmers in Malawi
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Tobacco farmers in Malawi were offered a direct-deposit savings account, which yielded significant positive impacts on their financial behavior and increases in their agricultural outputs. These results suggest a potential driver for economic growth and poverty reduction in the region.
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The US Manufacturing Industry’s Global Fight
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A new study confirms a resurgence of the US manufacturing industry in the last five years, primarily driven by a reduction in labor costs, depreciation of the US dollar, and reduction in domestic energy prices.
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Who Feels the Effects of Corporate Tax Change?
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A new study uses a spatial model of local economies to calculate the incidence of corporate income tax on firms, workers, and landowners.
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Who Benefits Most from Head Start Programs?
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New research on the impact of Head Start finds that participation leads to large cognitive gains, particularly among children with the lowest initial cognitive skills.