The anchoring heuristic with physical stimuli: does the heavier cost more?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15678/PJOEP.2016.09.04Keywords:
anchoring heuristic, physical anchoring, estimations, value, willingness to payAbstract
The anchoring heuristic does not have to rely on numerical anchors – this effect also occurs when physical stimuli serve as anchors. In this article, we investigated the influence of subjectively perceived weight on the numerical estimations regarding weight and value. Experiment 1 determined the relation between subjectively perceived weight and numerical estimations of weight and value of the object. Experiments 2 and 3 combined the physical anchors of different weights with the numerical information about the weight and value. The results suggest that the subjective perception of weight does not influence estimations regarding value. The anchoring effect was observed in amounts compatible to the information provided with the anchor. The results are discussed in the context of mechanisms of insufficient adjustment and the model of selective accessibility.
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