The Death of ‘Homo Economicus’

The video discusses the limitations of traditional economic models that assume humans are purely self-interested. It highlights the work of Sambals, who uses empirical evidence to challenge these assumptions, showing that humans are complex beings with altruistic tendencies. The discussion covers the implications of this research for economics, public policy, and environmental issues, suggesting that a more nuanced understanding of human behavior could lead to better economic models and policies.

Can you summarize the findings of the speaker's research on cooperative species?

What are the potential consequences of ignoring the complexity of human motivations in economic theory?

How does the speaker differentiate between incentives that crowd out moral motives and those that enhance them?

What role does the speaker believe government should play in promoting altruistic behavior?