Using a uniquely defined indicator of political ideology we test whether expectations of future financial well-being have an effect on an individual’s position on the political ‘left–right’ spectrum. We find evidence of a significant “prospect of upward mobility” effect.

Using the recently released UK Household Longitudinal Study we examine whether the raising of the school leaving age in 1972 had a permanent impact on earnings for individuals in their early 50s.

Bettors are subject to an optimistic bias when betting on the team they support. This paper shows that this individual bias does not affect betting odds on British teams in association football (soccer), as it is often argued.

When penalties for first-time offenders are restricted, it is typically optimal for the lawmaker to overdeter repeat offenders. First-time offenders are then deterred not only by the (restricted) fine for a first offense, but also by the prospect of a large fine for a subsequent offense. Now...

We show that a team may favor self-sabotage to influence the principal’s contract decision. Sabotage increases a team member’s bonus and total team effort. If these benefits outweigh the reduction in the success probability, sabotaging the team is rational.