Executive summary: Four large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in economics produced results that challenge prevailing narratives, demonstrating the value of RCTs in providing reliable evidence on important policy questions.
Key points:
Medical debt cancellation RCT found null or negative effects, contrary to expert predictions of positive impacts on financial stability and mental health.
Universal Basic Income (UBI) trials showed minimal positive effects and reduced work hours, contradicting expectations of improved health and career outcomes.
Basic income for homeless people had no significant impact on housing outcomes compared to the control group.
Online labor market minimum wage RCT confirmed standard economic theory predictions, unlike some observational studies.
These RCTs provide compelling evidence that should shift research directions and policy discussions in economics.
Political inconvenience may lead some economists to disregard these results in favor of less rigorous observational studies.
This comment was auto-generated by the EA Forum Team. Feel free to point out issues with this summary by replying to the comment, andcontact us if you have feedback.
Executive summary: Four large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in economics produced results that challenge prevailing narratives, demonstrating the value of RCTs in providing reliable evidence on important policy questions.
Key points:
Medical debt cancellation RCT found null or negative effects, contrary to expert predictions of positive impacts on financial stability and mental health.
Universal Basic Income (UBI) trials showed minimal positive effects and reduced work hours, contradicting expectations of improved health and career outcomes.
Basic income for homeless people had no significant impact on housing outcomes compared to the control group.
Online labor market minimum wage RCT confirmed standard economic theory predictions, unlike some observational studies.
These RCTs provide compelling evidence that should shift research directions and policy discussions in economics.
Political inconvenience may lead some economists to disregard these results in favor of less rigorous observational studies.
This comment was auto-generated by the EA Forum Team. Feel free to point out issues with this summary by replying to the comment, and contact us if you have feedback.