This paper uses a modified contractual model to study the role of religion-via entry and exit costs-in shaping preferences for getting and staying married. The religions that are analyzed are two "collective" religions: Judaism and Christianity. The paper takes a historical and contemporary look...

The authors describe an interdisciplinary undergraduate course exploring multiple intersections of economics and religion, using a variety of textual sources, exercises, and teaching methods from both fields. They conclude that such a course can be valuable for both majors and non-majors,...

The economics and sociology literature that deals with churches and sects provides a valuable framework when considering the social structure of environmental organizations. Iannaccone’s church-sect model provides an explanation of how rational individuals can join radical environmental...

The authors describe an interdisciplinary undergraduate course exploring multiple intersections of economics and religion, using a variety of textual sources, exercises, and teaching methods from both fields. They conclude that such a course can be valuable for both majors and non-majors,...

Of all the things that sustain formal religious institutions, none is more essential than material support. Without adequate income, congregations fold, denominations fail, and the faithful flock to greener pastures. Nor is any facet of religious commitment more concrete and quantifiable. People...