When the Sorting Hat Sorts Randomly: A Natural Experiment on Culture

• In Event: Natural Experiments in Africa

Abstract

Culture is a central but elusive concept in the social sciences, and so are its effects. We take advantage of a natural setting---the oldest university in East Africa---where students are randomly assigned to live in halls of residence that have maintained distinct student cultures for over four decades. A broad student consensus at the university characterizes certain hall cultures as sociable and activist, and others as academically-minded and respectful. Using an original survey and behavioral games, we find that the most distinct hall cultures on campus do not influence current students' academic performance, activism, or social habits. However, they affect same-hall peer characterization, time preferences, identity, and interpersonal trust and generosity.

* We are currently examining alumni survey and behavioral games data to understand the long-term effects of hall culture since randomization started in 1970. The paper presented at APSA 2017 would include both current students and alumni.

** The paper was accepted to APSA 2016 but not presented because the presenting author was suffering from chickenpox at the time. Therefore, we would be grateful to have the opportunity to present the latest version of our paper at APSA 2017.

Authors

• Joan Ricart-Huguet, Loyola University Maryland

• Betsy Levy Paluck, Princeton University