The Influence of Physical Attractiveness and Gender on Ultimatum Game Decisions

Results from this study revealed no significant differences in the offers or demands attractive and unattractive people made, however, attractive people and men were treated differently by others.

Abstract

Physical appearance influences behavior in a number of environments, yet surprisingly little is known about the influence of physical attractiveness on the bargaining process. We conducted an ultimatum game experiment to investigate the influence of physical attractiveness and gender on ultimatum game decisions. Results from this study revealed no significant differences in the offers or demands attractive and unattractive people made. However, attractive people and men were treated differently by others. Consistent with the notion of a "beauty premium," attractive people were offered more, but more was demanded of them. Men were also offered more, and less was demanded of them. We discuss implications of these results with respect to bargaining and the labor market. Copyright 1999 Academic Press.