b. 1959
James Andreoni is an American economist and professor at the University of California, San Diego, known for foundational work in behavioral economics and public finance. He is best known for introducing the concept of 'warm glow' giving to explain why individuals contribute to public goods even when free-riding would be individually rational. His research bridges economics, psychology, and philosophy in understanding altruism, charitable giving, and social preferences.
Developed the 'warm glow' theory of charitable giving and public goods contributions
Pioneered experimental economics methods for studying altruism and social preferences
Influential work on impure altruism distinguishing intrinsic motivation from consequentialist giving
Extensive research on tax policy and its effects on charitable donations
Contributed to understanding of public goods provision and voluntary cooperation