Experimental Methods: A Primer for Economists

Description

Experimental economics is a rapidly growing field of inquiry, and there currently exist several textbooks and surveys describing the results of laboratory experiments in economics. This primer, however, is the first hands-on guide to the physical aspects of actually conducting experiments in economics. It tells researchers, teachers and students in economics how to deal with human subjects, how to design meaningful laboratory environments, how to design experiments, how to conduct the experiments, and how to analyze and report the data. It also deals with methodological issues. It can be used to structure an undergraduate or graduate course in experimental economics.

"...a comprehensive survey of the basic principles and motivation behind economics experiments and experiment deisgn...A useful reference for the practicing economist or a good survey book for the graduate student." Choice "...An indispensable tool for anyone that wants to try a hand at experimental methods or expand an application of the methods to new areas." Charles R. Plott, California Institute of Technology "Dan Friedman and Shyam Sunder have been outstanding contributors to the development and maturation of experimental economics. They are particularly qualified to write this Primer dealing with methodology, tips, techniques, and tools that go with doing experiments. Their book will both complement and supplement the new books that have appeared in this high-growth segment of economics." Vernon L. Smith, University of Arizona "Experimental economics is a field that has grown tremendously in size and importance over the last decade, and this book serves as a useful introduction to the field for economists...The appendixes are extremely valuable,,,A useful reference for the practicing economist or a good survey book for the graduate student." L. Di Matteo, Choice