behavioral economics

American  

[bih-heyv-yer-uhl ek-uh-nom-iks, eekuh-] / bɪˈheɪv yər əl ˌɛk əˈnɒm ɪks, ˌikə- /

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. the branch of economics dealing with the effects of psychological, emotional, cultural, and social factors on individual or group economic decision-making, as distinguished from classical economics, which assumes that people will make the optimal economic decisions based on rational self-interest and utility.

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Etymology

Origin of behavioral economics

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

“If you really know what you’re doing, are actively engaged and know how to use the clutch, it’s great,” said Andy Reed, head of behavioral economics research in Vanguard’s investment strategy group.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 21, 2026

"We used a mathematical model and tools from game theory and behavioral economics to understand the motivations behind tipping," says Dr. Snitkovsky.

From Science Daily • Mar. 2, 2026

As Mr. Thaler reports, “despite the empirical robustness and conceptual importance of these findings, insights from behavioral economics remain largely absent from mainstream economics textbooks.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 26, 2025

“People are starting to think through needs versus wants a little bit more,” Elizabeth Schwab, founding chair of The Chicago’s School’s graduate behavioral economics program, said.

From Salon • Oct. 17, 2024

Kahneman received the Nobel Prize in economics in 2002 for these and other contributions that ended up underpinning the discipline now known as behavioral economics.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 27, 2024