Date of Graduation

5-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Economics (PhD)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Economics

Advisor/Mentor

Sherry Li

Committee Member

Peter J. McGee

Second Committee Member

Andy Brownback

Third Committee Member

Md Amzad Hossain

Keywords

Diversity; Discrimination; Performance Dynamics

Abstract

This dissertation utilizes empirical and experimental approaches to investigate the multifaceted factors that affect decision-making in economic contexts. The three chapters place a particular focus on group affiliation, perceived discrimination, and the gender gap in entrepreneurship. The first chapter explores the impact of team diversity on economic decision-making within a dynamic context. Through a series of laboratory experiments involving participants randomly assigned to teams, the study examines how team diversity influences individual behavior and performance. Results indicate that team diversity significantly affects individual behavior, with newcomers being particularly influenced by the diversity of the team they join. The findings underscore the importance of understanding the effects of team composition on decision-making processes and performance outcomes. The second chapter delves into the implications of subjective evaluation systems for both supervisors and employees. Through experiments conducted with participants from two U.S. universities, the research examines how group affiliation influences perceived discrimination in economic decision-making. By uncovering disparities in anticipation of bias based on race and gender, the study highlights the importance of addressing systemic biases and fostering inclusive workplace environments. The third chapter investigates the dynamics of fundraising in early stage startups. Despite dominance in certain female-dominated industries, women entrepreneurs struggle to secure funding. The analysis suggests potential industry-based sorting bias, with women-led ventures performing on par or better in high-funding industries. Overall, these chapters deepen our understanding of team dynamics, job evaluations, and discrimination perceptions, while also offering insights for creating more inclusive work environments.

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