Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
884027 | Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization | 2010 | 11 Pages |
Abstract
This paper explores what determines the survival of people in a life-and-death situation. The sinking of the Titanic allows us to inquire whether pro-social behavior matters in such extreme situations. This event can be considered a quasi-natural experiment. The empirical results suggest that social norms such as ‘women and children first’ persevered during such an event. Women of reproductive age and crew members had a higher probability of survival. Passenger class, fitness, group size, and cultural background also mattered.
Related Topics
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Economics and Econometrics
Authors
Bruno S. Frey, David A. Savage, Benno Torgler,