Perceived Fairness and Consequences of Affirmative Action Policies

Debates about affirmative action often revolve around fairness. Accordingly, we document substantial heterogeneity in the fairness perception of various policies. But do these differences translate into different consequences? In a laboratory experiment, study three quota rules that favor individuals whose performance is low, either due to bad luck (discrimination), low productivity, or choice short working time. Higher perceptions coincide with higher willingness compete and less retaliation against winners. No policy harms overall efficiency post-competition teamwork. Furthermore, seem internalize normbehind policies are perceived as fairest.