Why Shoot-out Kicks and Bread Machines Can Be Similar

In the 2008 European Championship quarter finals, the Italian team let Spain go first for the end-of-game shoot-out. That was a big mistake. Where are we going? To the influence of a reference point. Penalty Shoot-Outs When a soccer game has no winner, a penalty…

The Significance of a Baby’s Name

As a signal from parents, popular baby names can convey a quest for individuality as well as a liberal or conservative message.

Deciding How Much To Work

Illustrated by the Expedia Vacation Deprivation survey, how much vacation time we take can depend on where we live and our reference points.

How Restaurant Psychology Affects Us

Including music and seating design, restaurant psychology affects table turnover by influencing how fast we eat and drink.

A Big Problem That Needs a Little Nudge

Whether increasing tax compliance or discouraging public urination, behavioral economics can encourage socially desirable behavior with the right nudges.

What We Think About Attractive Politicians

Using pictures, voters could identify conservative politicians because attractiveness, economic success and ideology tend to correlate.

The Hidden Part of Our Paycheck

While paychecks have increased, the numbers change when we look at all worker compensation ranging from office coffee to health insurance.

Girl Scout Cookie Economics

Soon to start their hundredth year, Girl Scout cookie sales will include some new economics and cookies but what you get depends on where you live.

What Happens When You Pay What You Want?

Affecting a firm’s revenue, when consumers can determine price through pay-what-you-want, the amount they select depends on their unselfish self-signaling.

Weekly Roundup: From Santa’s Salary to Holiday Spending

This week’s economic news summary includes Apple’s corporate taxes, Santa’s GDP connection, seasonal spending, the gender gap and the brain and shopping.