In this paper we use an experiment to compare a theory of risk aversion and a theory of spite as an explanation for … overbidding in auctions. As a workhorse we use the second-price all-pay and the first-price winner-pay auction. Both risk and … spite can be used to rationalize deviations from risk neutral equilibrium bids in auctions. We exploit that equilibrium …

the realized state of the world. In a second experiment, risk affects the earnings of givers but not of beneficiaries. We … consequences. Although risk preferences are likely important, existing research is silent about how social and risk preferences … interact in such situations. In this paper we provide experimental evidence on this question. In a first experiment givers are …

In this paper we use an experiment to compare a theory of risk aversion and a theory of spite as an explanation for … overbidding in auctions. As a workhorse we use the second-price all-pay and the first-price winner-pay auction. Both risk and … spite can be used to rationalize deviations from risk neutral equilibrium bids in auctions. We exploit that equilibrium …