smart ≟ sophisticated

Since several decades, we are aware of the sometimes time-­‐inconsistent preferences of people. Many researchers have dedicated studies to this phenomenon. However, there has not yet been much research on the factors that could explain differences of intertemporal behaviour. This is exactly what this study is about. The main goal is to assess the relationship between education level on the one hand, and intertemporal choice on the other. In a field study at a Dutch high school, students’ time-­‐(in)consistent preferences were investigated through a bonus system that rewarded non-­‐procrastinating behaviour. The data collected through this experiment did not show any significant effects of education level. However, it was shown that gender is associated with intertemporal behaviour in the sample of this study.