The volunteer’s dilemma explains the bystander effect

The bystander effect is the phenomenon that people are less likely to help others when they in a group than alone. theoretical literature typically explains with volunteer’s dilemma: if providing equivalent creating public good, then bystanders could be groups because free ride on other bystanders. This paper uses dynamic game experimentally test such strategic interactions as an explanation for effect. In line predictions of dilemma, I find immediately alone but later and part larger group. contrast model’s predictions, subjects need helped earlier more groups. finding can accounted extended model includes both altruistic selfish concludes dilemma sensible way situations which someone help, it highlights take heterogeneous social preferences into account.