Nudging has become an increasingly popular concept in public policy and governance in recent years, and this dissertation delves deep into the subject by providing the first-ever international comparison among national Behavioural Insights Teams. These teams, also known as Nudge Units, are responsible for translating the principles of behavioural economics into projects aimed at making public administration more efficient and citizen-friendly. The dissertation presents a comprehensive analysis of Nudge Units in the UK, USA, Italy, and Denmark, examining their structures, aims, benefits, legal status, and more.

In the first chapter of the dissertation, the author discusses the influence of behavioural economics on policy-making and highlights the concept of nudging, which involves altering choice architecture to encourage people to make better decisions for themselves. The author explains the workings of choice architecture and provides real-life examples of its impact. Additionally, the philosophical justifications for nudging are examined, including Cass R. Sunstein’s ideas on libertarian paternalism and his Simpler State model, which applies cost-benefit analysis and utilitarian traits to public policy.

The second chapter of the dissertation compares the Nudge Units of the UK, USA, Italy, and Denmark. The author provides an in-depth analysis of the development of nudging in each country, covering the origins of Nudge Units, the structure of the teams, and the legal framework under which they operate. The author examines the UK’s national Behavioural Insights Team, the roots of nudging in the USA, the Danish Nudging Network, and the current state of nudging in Italy. The author also interviews key figures in the Nudge Units of each country to gain further insight into their operations and goals.

By presenting a comparative analysis of Nudge Units in different countries, this dissertation highlights the impact of nudging on public policy and governance. The author identifies similarities and differences among the Nudge Units, which provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of nudging in different contexts. Moreover, the analysis provides policymakers and researchers with practical recommendations for implementing Nudge Units in their own countries.

Overall, “Nudging in the UK, in the USA, in Italy and in Denmark” is an informative and timely book that sheds light on the emerging field of behavioural economics and its practical applications in public policy. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the subject and is sure to appeal to policymakers, researchers, and students alike.

Keywords: nudging, behavioural economics, policy making, choice architecture, Behavioural Insights Teams, UK, USA, Denmark, Italy, comparative analysis, libertarian paternalism, cost-benefit analysis, Cass Sunstein, David Cameron, Barack Obama, Pelle Guldborg Hansen, public administration, efficiency, citizens’ needs, decision making, cognitive psychology, government, social welfare, experimental design, behaviour change, policymaker, governance.