Perceptions of Economic Fairness Positively Affect Altruistic Punishment

Altruistic punishment involves punishers incurring costs to penalize norm violators for the benefit of the group or others. Through five studies, this article explored how and when perceptions of economic fairness affect altruistic punishment. Study 1 found a positive relationship between perceptions of economic fairness and two forms of altruistic punishment: Reporting Social Problems and Protesting Misbehaviour of Boss. Study 2 extended these findings to the real-world, indicating that perceptions of economic fairness are positively associated with direct punishment but not indirect punishment. Studies 3 and 4 provide causal evidence for the above findings by manipulating perceptions of economic fairness in two different ways. Study 5 manipulated perceptions of economic fairness and outcome efficacy, indicating that the above effects only manifest under high outcome efficacy. These findings advance theoretical research on altruistic punishment, offering insights into economic and social governance.