| Abstract: |
We examine how the evaluation of research studies in economics depends on
whether a study yielded a null result. Studies with null results are perceived
to be less publishable, of lower quality, less important, and less precisely
estimated than studies with significant results, even when holding constant
all other study features, including the precision of estimates. The null
result penalty is of similar magnitude among PhD students and journal editors.
The penalty is larger when experts predict a large effect and when statistical
uncertainty is communicated with p-values rather than standard errors. Our
findings highlight the value of pre-results review. |