The theoretical literature on collusion in auctions suggests that the first-price mechanism can deter the formation of bidding rings. In equilibrium, collusive negotiations are either successful or are avoided altogether, hence such analysis neglects the effects of failed collusion attempts. In...

We study non-instrumental value for information when choosing between symmetric and asymmetric information sources. Although symmetry is a seemingly superficial characteristic, we find a systematic preference for a symmetric source over an asymmetric one. We elicit beliefs and find that...

In experiments, people behave more cooperatively when they are aware of an external threat, while in the field, we observe surprisingly high levels of cooperation and altruism within groups in conflict situations such as civil wars. We provide an explanation for these phenomena. We introduce a...