Research Handbook on Nudges and Society

This timely Handbook offers a comprehensive examination of the growing field of nudging and its impact on society. The editors, Cass R. Sunstein and Lucia A. Reisch provide readers with a detailed exploration of the theoretical and empirical work on nudging, as well as an understanding of current and likely future developments in the field.Divided into six key thematic parts, the Handbook covers everything from the foundations of nudging to its use in organizations. Top international scholars approach the subject from multiple disciplines and perspectives, examining current debates in the field, including the relationship between nudges and freedom; nudges, behavioral biases, and noise; the fundamental role of default rules and social norms; and how nudging can enhance human welfare. Health, safety, poverty, employment, the environment (including climate change), economic growth, health, safety, and civil rights are among the subjects covered. The Handbook concludes with a detailed look at contested ideas and real-world policies, such as ethics and the policies of Covid-19, as well as providing commentary on misconceptions about nudging.This Handbook is an essential resource for scholars and students in the fields of behavioural economics, public policy, law, public administration, public health, food policy, and sustainable development policy. The state-of-the-art practical insights into nudging, as well as accessible style, also makes this an invigorating read for practitioners.

‘The “nudge revolution” is now 15 years old, and has produced enough theory and research to warrant a long, hard look. This volume provides it. In its pages, the world’s experts on every aspect of nudging—from how to when to why—describe what we’ve learned about how to use behavioral science to improve human lives. This book is an essential resource for anyone interested in this topic.’, ‘The Research Handbook on Nudges and Society is a fantastic new compendium exploring how we can improve management and policy with nudges. Sunstein and Reisch have brought together outstanding chapters that will inform researchers and policymakers about new challenges and opportunities in the field, elucidating how and when choice architecture can be used most effectively to benefit society.’, ‘This is the book you need to catch up with state-ot-the art research on behavioural public policy. Inspiring for researchers, policy analysts and policy makers alike.’, ‘An insightful collection of essays exploring the intersection of nudges and society. From theoretical debates to real-world applications, this book delves into the nuances of behavioural public policy. It covers a wide range of debates – on agency, social welfare, economic inequality, polarization, and more. A gem-filled and enjoyable read.’

Edited by Cass R. Sunstein, Robert Walmsley University Professor, Harvard University, US and Lucia A. Reisch, Professor of Behavioural Economics and Policy, and Director of the El-Erian Institute for Behavioural Economics and Policy, Cambridge Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, UK