Biography

Prof. Dr. Elke U. Weber

Gerhard R. Andlinger Professor in Energy and the Environment,
Professor of Psychology and Public Affairs,
Princeton University

1980 – 1984 ‍ Harvard University: M.A., Ph.D. (Cognitive Psychology)
1976 – 1980 ‍ York University: B.A., Summa cum Laude (Psychology)

Research Philosophy

I believe that psychological theory needs to interface with social problems in a two-way dialogue, proving itself with constructive solutions in real-world settings and being enriched and constrained by those settings.

While much of my work draws distinctions between homo economicus and homo sapiens, I also examine individual, group, and cultural differences in time discounting or risk taking and how best to assess and model them. Every research method has strengths and weaknesses, so I approach my questions with a mosaic of answers that draw on lab and field experiments that collect process data, behavioral outcomes, associated brain activation, and more.

I then put all of these insights to use by helping individuals or social planners design decision environments that capitalize on the full range of human capabilities and goals to make wise decisions.

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