The Illusion of Moral Superiority: Evidence from the Energy Crisis
Abstract
We provide evidence in line with the illusion of moral superiority, a phenomenon that individuals perceive themselves to be more morally motivated than others. We analyze survey data collected during the 2022/23 energy crisis in Germany to investigate individuals’ and others’ motivations to reduce gas consumption, including both financial and non-financial (or ‘moral’) motives. Across two studies, we find evidence for the illusion of moral superiority: participants, on average, attribute stronger moral motives to their own savings compared to those of others.
Keywords
energy prices; motivation; energy savings; behavioral economics
Cite as
Dertwinkel-Kalt, M., Feldhaus, C., Ockenfels, A., & Sutter, M. (2025). The Illusion of Moral Superiority: Evidence from the Energy Crisis. European Economic Review, 178.Details
Publication type
Research article (journal)
Peer reviewed
Yes
Publication status
Published
Year
2025
Journal
European Economic Review
Volume
178
Language
English
ISSN
0014-2921
DOI