THE ROLE OF MORAL PREFERENCES IN PROSOCIAL AND HONEST BEHAVIOR: INSIGHTS FROM THE PUBLIC GOOD AND DIE ROLLING GAMES

This study explored the sustainability and persistence of prosocial and honest behaviors influenced by moral preferences—specifically deontological and consequentialist orientations—within two economic games: the Public Goods Game and the Die-Rolling Game. Drawing on existing literature, we sought to understand how individuals' ethical frameworks shape their decision-making processes, particularly in contexts involving prosociality and honesty. We replicated the Die-Rolling Game and Public Goods Game to assess cheating and contribution behavior across one-shot and repeated conditions. Results indicated that consequentialists displayed more variability in decision-making, while deontologists remained consistent regardless of repeated opportunities for dishonest behavior. In the Public Goods Game, moral preferences did not significantly influence contribution levels, suggesting both groups emphasized the act of contributing. These findings contribute to the understanding of ethical decision-making in economic settings and provide insight into the mechanisms underlying prosocial behavior.