The economic effects of inter-sectarian harmony
This project looks at the divide between Sunni and Shia sects within Islam and whether increased interaction between them can impact the individuals’ beliefs and preferences.
The divide within Islam between Shia and Sunni sects has recently become of great importance economically and politically, not only in the Middle East, but also globally.
In this project we aim to conduct an experiment to increase contact between the two sects in a very natural setting: within Mosques in Pakistan.
We aim to evaluate the effect of this increased contact on beliefs and preferences of mosque-goers about their own and the other sect. We will be specifically looking at patriotism, politics, abuse of power and corruption, cognitive ability, work ethic, nationalism, and economic behaviours.