Where is God in the Game? The relation between religion and cooperation

Abstract

This research examines the relation between religion and cooperation. In this study a model is introduced indicating the possible relationship between religion and cooperation. The model assumes that religion has an indirect effect on cooperation with social preferences and social embeddedness as mediators. For testing the relationship data from a computerized public goods experiment, supplemented with a religion survey, were used. Results do not confirm the model. An interesting finding of this research is that Christians contribute less to the public good compared to both religious people belonging to other denominations as unreligious people.