Working Paper: CEPR ID: DP7406
Authors: Margherita Comola; Marcel Fafchamps
Abstract: The literature has shown that network architecture depends crucially on whether links are formed unilaterally or bilaterally, that is, on whether the consent of both nodes is required for a link to be formed. We propose a test of whether network data is best seen as an actual link or willingness to link and, in the latter case, whether this link is generated by an unilateral or bilateral link formation process. We illustrate this test using survey answers to a risk-sharing question in Tanzania. We find that the bilateral link formation model fits the data better than the unilateral model, but the data are best interpreted as willingness to link rather than an actual link. We then expand the model to include self-censoring and find that models with self-censoring fit the data best.
Keywords: network architecture; pairwise stability; risk sharing
JEL Codes: C12; C52; D85
Edges that are evidenced by causal inference methods are in orange, and the rest are in light blue.
| Cause | Effect |
|---|---|
| bilateral link formation model (D85) | better fit than unilateral model (C52) |
| self-censoring (Y30) | willingness to link (Y80) |
| desire to link + expectations about partner's acceptance (D84) | willingness to link (Y80) |