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Carnegie Mellon University


Green energy nudges come with a hidden cost

A recent study from Carnegie Mellon University finds that simple green energy nudges can decrease support for more effective climate change policies, such as a carbon tax. The researchers found that when participants were also offered a nudge, their support for the tax declined significantly.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 13, 2019

Public dread of nuclear power limits its use

A recent study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers found that public fear of nuclear power leads to a 40% decrease in chosen nuclear generation. The team surveyed over 1,200 US respondents and showed some with the names of energy sources and others with risk information to disentangle the root causes of public opinion.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalEnergy Policy·DateMay 6, 2019

Why does bribery work?

A Carnegie Mellon University study found that bribery works because people are motivated by greed, not the desire to reciprocate. When incentives are contingent on choices, bribes distort judgment more. However, when bribes don't influence outcomes, their effectiveness is reduced.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJournal of the European Economic Association·DateFeb 12, 2019

Smartphone-based mindfulness training reduces loneliness, increases social contact

A Carnegie Mellon University study found that smartphone-based mindfulness training can help individuals feel less lonely and interact with more people. Acceptance skills training was critical to improving social functioning outcomes, reducing daily life loneliness by 22% and increasing social contact by two interactions per day.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2019