2022
Working Paper
HBS Working Paper Series

Beliefs about Gender Differences in Social Preferences

By: Christine L Exley, Oliver P. Hauser, Molly Moore and John-Henry Pezzuto

Format:Print
| Language:English
| Pages:205

Abstract

While there is a vast (and mixed) literature on gender differences in social preferences, little is known about believed gender differences in social preferences. This paper documents robust evidence for believed gender differences in social preferences. Across a wide range of contexts that vary in terms of strategic considerations, selfish motives, fairness concepts and applications, we find that individuals robustly expect that women are more generous and more equality-oriented. Despite the robustness of these beliefs, the believed gender gap in social preferences—in the range of contexts we consider—is largely inaccurate.

Keywords

Social Preferences; Gender; Behavior; Attitudes; Values and Beliefs

Citation

Exley, Christine L., Oliver P. Hauser, Molly Moore, and John-Henry Pezzuto. "Beliefs about Gender Differences in Social Preferences." Harvard Business School Working Paper, No. 22-079, June 2022.