THE ROLE OF MORAL PREFERENCES IN PROSOCIAL AND HONEST BEHAVIOR: INSIGHTS FROM THE PUBLIC GOOD AND DIE ROLLING GAMES

Authors

  • Tze Wei, Ooi School of Economics and Management, Xiamen Malaysia University
  • Bee Chuan, Sia International Business Department, Faculty of Accountancy and Management, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman
  • Kean Siang, Ch’ng Economics Department, School of Social Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33736/ijbs.12817.2026

Keywords:

Consequentialist, Deontologist, Public Good Game, Die Rolling Game, Honesty, Prosociality

Abstract

This study explored the sustainability and persistence of prosocial and honest behaviors influenced by moral preferences—specifically deontological and consequentialist orientations—within two economic games: the Public Goods Game and the Die-Rolling Game. Drawing on existing literature, we sought to understand how individuals' ethical frameworks shape their decision-making processes, particularly in contexts involving prosociality and honesty. We replicated the Die-Rolling Game and Public Goods Game to assess cheating and contribution behavior across one-shot and repeated conditions. Results indicated that consequentialists displayed more variability in decision-making, while deontologists remained consistent regardless of repeated opportunities for dishonest behavior. In the Public Goods Game, moral preferences did not significantly influence contribution levels, suggesting both groups emphasized the act of contributing. These findings contribute to the understanding of ethical decision-making in economic settings and provide insight into the mechanisms underlying prosocial behavior.

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Published

2026-04-29

How to Cite

Tze Wei, Ooi, Bee Chuan, Sia, & Kean Siang, Ch’ng. (2026). THE ROLE OF MORAL PREFERENCES IN PROSOCIAL AND HONEST BEHAVIOR: INSIGHTS FROM THE PUBLIC GOOD AND DIE ROLLING GAMES. International Journal of Business and Society, 27(1), 127–146. https://doi.org/10.33736/ijbs.12817.2026