Freakonomics Radio 154. What You Don’t Know About Online Dating
Feb 6, 2014
In this discussion, Paul Oyer, a Stanford labor economist and author, dives into the economics of online dating, blending humor with analysis. He explores how technology shapes user behavior and relationship dynamics. Topics include the balance of authenticity versus self-promotion, the overwhelming choices in dating markets, and the importance of algorithms in matchmaking. Oyer also sheds light on societal expectations and the absurdities of dating profiles, offering a witty critique of the modern romantic landscape.
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Fake Profile Experiment
- Allie Reed created a fake OKCupid profile for an attractive but terrible woman.
- The fake profile received significantly more messages than her real profile.
Looks Matter
- Men prioritize looks heavily in online dating, with attractive women receiving many more messages.
- A "superstar effect" exists where the top 5% of attractive men get disproportionately more attention.
Income and Attraction
- Higher income significantly increases men's attractiveness on dating sites.
- Women generally prefer men with higher incomes, a trend reflected in both initial attraction and relationship stability.
