C. Tyler DesRoches

The concept of ‘nudge’ has sparked intense debate among scholars, ranging from staunch opposition to fervent advocacy. While ethical concerns such as paternalism and autonomy violations rightfully dominate discussions, there remains a significant gap in the literature concerning neglected themes in nudging. This article argues for a reevaluation of the literature among philosophers of economics and economic methodologists by highlighting three critical themes that warrant further exploration. Firstly, amidst predominant focus on traditional welfare nudging, there is a compelling case for prioritizing social nudging aimed at addressing broader societal issues such as negative consumption and production externalities. The urgency of collective action problems such as climate change necessitates a moral imperative to examine the ethics and effectiveness of social nudges. Secondly, the separation between ethical considerations and empirical efficacy in nudging research is overly simplistic. The interplay between the ethics and efficacy of nudging interventions demands integrated analysis, challenging scholars and scientists alike to bridge disciplinary divides for more comprehensive insights. Lastly, I will argue that the impact of cross-cultural differences on the applicability and ethical dimensions of nudging strategies is often overlooked. The reliance on data from WEIRD populations (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic) limits the generalizability of behavioral insights, highlighting the need for culturally inclusive approaches in behavioral science and policy formulation. By addressing these neglected themes, this article advocates for a more nuanced and interdisciplinary approach to understanding and implementing nudging strategies in public policy.