Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Showing results for "behavioral economics"
SEE ALSO:
Tech & Science dictionary results for behavioral economics.

behavioral economics

American  
[bih-heyv-yer-uhl ek-uh-nom-iks, eekuh-] / bɪˈheɪv jər 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.


Etymology

Origin of behavioral economics

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Behavioral economist Loewenstein and psychologist Chater have written a book aimed straight at the heart of behavioral economics itself.

From The Wall Street Journal Jul. 14, 2026

“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

We’d stay up late debating string theory, behavioral economics, even the origins of satire.

From The Wall Street Journal Oct. 30, 2025

Because even behavioral economics sometimes sees it as rational and scientific, and any deviation from it needs to be explained as some weird paradox.

From Salon Feb. 1, 2025

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Dictionary.com's Learning Companion

Go beyond just looking up words.
Remember them forever with VocabTrainer.

Start training