What Do Field Experiments of Discrimination in Markets Tell Us? A Meta Analysis of Studies Conducted Since 2000

71 Pages Posted: 1 Nov 2014

See all articles by Judith Rich

Judith Rich

University of Portsmouth; IZA Institute of Labor Economics

Abstract

Sixty-seven field experiments of discrimination in markets conducted since 2000 across seventeen countries were surveyed. Significant and persistent discrimination was found on all bases in all markets. High levels of discrimination were recorded against ethnic groups, older workers, men applying to female-dominated jobs and homosexuals in labour markets. Minority applicants for housing needed to make many more enquiries to view properties. Geographical steering of African-Americans in US housing remained significant. Higher prices were quoted to minority applicants buying products. More information made no significant improvement to minority applicant outcomes. Clear evidence of statistical discrimination was found only in product markets.

Keywords: field experiments, discrimination, survey, meta analysis

JEL Classification: J7, C93

Suggested Citation

Rich, Judith, What Do Field Experiments of Discrimination in Markets Tell Us? A Meta Analysis of Studies Conducted Since 2000. IZA Discussion Paper No. 8584, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2517887 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2517887

Judith Rich (Contact Author)

University of Portsmouth

University House
Winston Churchhill Avenue
Portsmouth, Hampshire PO1 2UP
United Kingdom

IZA Institute of Labor Economics

Schaumburg-Lippe-Str. 7 / 9
Bonn, D-53072
Germany

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