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To Replicate or Not To Replicate? Exploring Reproducibility in Economics through the Lens of a Model and a Pilot Study

Author

Listed:
  • Zacharias Maniadis
  • Fabio Tufano
  • John A. List
Abstract
The sciences are in an era of an alleged ‘credibility crisis’. In this study, we discuss the reproducibility of empirical results, focusing on economics research. By combining theory and empirical evidence, we discuss the import of replication studies and whether they improve our confidence in novel findings. The theory sheds light on the importance of replications, even when replications are subject to bias. We then present a pilot meta‐study of replication in experimental economics, a subfield serving as a positive benchmark for investigating the credibility of economics. Our meta‐study highlights certain difficulties when applying meta‐research to systematise the economics literature.

Suggested Citation

  • Zacharias Maniadis & Fabio Tufano & John A. List, 2017. "To Replicate or Not To Replicate? Exploring Reproducibility in Economics through the Lens of a Model and a Pilot Study," Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 127(605), pages 209-235, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:econjl:v:127:y:2017:i:605:p:f209-f235
    DOI: 10.1111/ecoj.12527
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    References listed on IDEAS

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