Economics
Study Notes
Default Bias (Behavioural Economics)
- Level:
- AS, A Level
- Board:
- AQA, Edexcel, OCR, IB
Last updated 21 Mar 2021
What is default or status quo bias?
People prefer to carry on behaving as they have always done even when the circumstances that might influence their decisions change. Repeat choices / purchases often become automatic because default choices don’t involve much mental (cognitive) effort.

To do nothing is within the power of all men
Examples:
- Your choice of daily breakfast cereal / razor / sandwich preference
- Political preferences in elections e.g. preferring the status quo
Most decisions have the status quo alternative which is simply to stick to your current choice. When the status quo bias is strongly engrained in our behaviour, then it may become difficult for policy interventions - for example designed to improve health outcomes - to have a significant impact on the choices that people make. The incentive to make a change in behaviour needs to be compelling.
You might also like
Behavioural Economics (Quizlet Revision Activity)
Quizzes & Activities
Behavioural Economics | Match Up Activity
Quizzes & Activities
Behavioural Economics - Clear The Deck Key Term Knowledge Activity
Quizzes & Activities
Favourite Behavioural Economics Valentines
14th February 2017
Behavioural Economics for A Level - Explained
1st January 2017
Availability Bias (Behavioural Economics)
Student Videos
Behavioural Economics and Economic Thinking
14th April 2016
Recommended

Exam support for 2022
Online Grade Booster Courses for A-Level Exams in May & June 2022
Exam technique, advance information support, live revision and more from the tutor2u subject specialist teams