The Importance of Time and Space: A Multidimensional Assessment of How Citizens Discount Policy Consequences

Abstract

How does the combination of spatial and temporal distance affect policy support? Many policy challenges are characterized by long time horizons (e.g., multiple generations) and high geographic dispersion (e.g., multiple countries). However, existing studies which characterize how citizens discount policy benefits typically treat these dimensions in isolation. In this study, we use conjoint experiments to assess how citizens discount policy benefits across both time and space. Through a national survey in Japan, we find that citizens discount policy consequences in their own country but which are two generations removed (40-50 years) at a similar rate that they discount contemporary benefits that primarily accrue in other countries. Moreover, these effects are additive, so policies which are distant in both dimensions receive the lowest levels of support. This study underscores the unique challenges of garnering political support for the provision of global, multi-generational public goods.