Neuroeconomics Studies of Fairness and Organizational Justice Research: A Meta-Synthesis

Abstract

A meta-synthesis exploring the neural foundations of fairness and its implications for organizational justice research was conducted. The sample included 37 studies analyzing the neural foundations of fairness and using a variety of neuroscientific tools, such as fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging), EEG (electroencephalograhy), rTMS (repetitive transcrational magnetic stimulation) and PET (position electron tomography). Results indicate the existence of a neural network of fairness and unfairness. They also indicate that fairness activates the reward circuitry, whereas unfairness elicits activation of brain regions associated with pain, emotions, and disgust. The study’s implications for organizational justice research and management practice are discussed.