Nudge in the news: Ethics, effects, and support of nudges

Abstract Governments use nudges to stimulate citizens exercise, save money and eat healthily. However, nudging is controversial. How the media frames nudge impacts decisions on whether this policy instrument. We, therefore, analyzed 443 newspaper articles about nudging. Overall, was positive nudges. Nudging viewed as an effective efficient way change behavior received considerable support across political spectrum. The also noted that were easy implement. controversy concerns themes like paternalism, fear of manipulation, small effect sizes, unintended consequences. Academic proponents actively involved in debates, while critical voices less often heard. There some reports criticizing how government used these exceptions; highlighted benefits Concluding, we show by governments discussed a institution: news media.