Economics Wins, Psychology Loses, and Society Pays

Abstract

Economics is the social science that dominates public policy debate and formulation. Economic assumptions lay the foundation for policy initiatives and economic principles provide the framework for design of regulations that govern our society. We argue that other social sciences, and in particular psychology, have a great deal to offer, and that our failure to incorporate the lessons from other social sciences leads to inferior public policy. The chapter outlines five predominant myths, adapted from pervasive economic assumptions, which serve as guiding policy principles and destroy value in society. We elaborate on the consequences of our over-reliance on these myths, and demonstrate how psychological lessons and insights might inform policy decisions.