Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/262102 
Year of Publication: 
2022
Series/Report no.: 
ECONtribute Discussion Paper No. 158
Publisher: 
University of Bonn and University of Cologne, Reinhard Selten Institute (RSI), Bonn and Cologne
Abstract: 
How does a citizen's decision to participate in political activism depend on the participation of others? We conduct a nation-wide natural field experiment in collaboration with a major European party during a recent national election. In a party survey, we randomly provide canvassers with true information about the canvassing intentions of their peers. When learning that more peers participate in canvassing than previously believed, canvassers significantly reduce both their canvassing intentions and behavior. An additional survey among party supporters underscores the importance of free-riding motives and reveals that there is strong heterogeneity in motives underlying supporters' behavioral responses.
Subjects: 
Political activism
natural field experiment
strategic behavior
beliefs
motives
JEL: 
D8
P16
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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