Title
Mating Strategies and Gender Differences in Prosociality: theory and evidence
Document Type
Article
Keywords
pro-sociality theory; experimental economics; gender differences; cooperation; generosity
Identifier Data
10.1093/cesifo/ifr020
Publisher
Oxford University Press
Publication Source
CESifo Economics Studies, 57(4), 653-682
Abstract
This article examines gender differences in pro-sociality using theories from evolutionary psychology and empirical evidence from experimental economics. Although there has been extensive prior research in both fields, there remains a large disconnect between the source of gender differences in pro-sociality and experimental research aimed at informing cooperation and generosity. Thus, the main contribution of our article is to bridge this gap by arguing that differences in male and female motives for pro-sociality stem, at least in part, from gender differences in mating strategies. In particular, we discuss gender differences in: (i) signaling behaviors; (ii) conformance to social norms; and (iii) approaches toward resolving intra- and inter-group dilemmas. This article may be a useful resource for those hoping to gain a better understanding of the foundations of gender differences in pro-sociality; likewise, it draws useful attention to empirical research aimed at promoting charitable giving and enhancing resource allocation efficiency. (JEL codes: D03, D64)
