Ethical investments: Preferences and morality

An economist and a social psychologist/sociologist discuss ethical investing (i.e., investing in socially desirable/attractive goods/services). An economic psychology model is outlined that allows for concerned investing. Four processes are identified: on the supply-side is the notion of innovative (value shift) marketing strategies; on the demand-side are consumer altruism, the influence of liberal elites, and the changing characteristics of consumers/investors (vintage preferences). This economic psychology model attaches weight to economic processes, not just consequences; to causal explanations beyond economic determinism; and to an interest in individual cognition (thinking, choices, attitudes, and preferences). (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2007 APA, all rights reserved).