type="main" xml:lang="en" <p>Studies have found that going first or last in a sequential order contest leads to a biased outcome, commonly called order bias (or primacy and recency). Studies have also found that judges have a tendency to reward contestants they recognize with additional points,...</p>

We revisit a recent study by Lindo, Swensen, and Waddell (2012), who found a negative relationship between the success of the University of Oregon football team and the academic performance of students as measured by grades. Using data from Clemson University, we also find that the football...

Many states are outlawing the use of affirmative action, which has lead to the use of inefficient measures as a substitute. I show that schools still use affirmative action in the application process because of a down-stream demand from employers.

Today’s children experience a decreased amount of time at recess and fewer physical education (PE) classes throughout the school day. Breaks for physical activity limit class time for academics, potentially reducing learning. However, breaks may improve alertness and achievement. Using the...

The National Hockey League (NHL) had a lockout that lasted the entire 2004-2005 season. Because this lockout cancelled the season, it provides a unique opportunity to analyze the economic impact on county employment and payroll in the sectors relevant to the sporting world. We test 3 and 4-digit...

Bilateral trade agreements may arise from and enhance shared cultural norms across countries. Greater cultural understanding or similarities may be revealed through a number of avenues. We investigate one particular avenue: the judging of gymnastic performances. Using execution and difficulty...

Some have claimed that referee and home-field bias in football (American soccer) have been impacted by the fans at the match. When fans are hostile, the threat referees feel to their health and well-being influences their ability to call a fair match. We analyze two leagues with differing fan...