ARTICLE TYPE : RESEARCH ARTICLE
Published on : 19 Sep 2025, Volume - 1
Journal Title : WebLog Journal of Public Health and Epidemiology | WebLog J Public Health Epidemiol
Source URL: 
https://weblogoa.com/articles/wjphe.2025.i1901
Permanent Identifier (DOI) : 
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17282699
Nudge Theory and Road Safety
2Public Administration, Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business, University of West Florida, Florida, United States
3Emeritus, University of South Florida, Florida, United States
Abstract
Abstract: This study examines the intersection of behavioral economics' nudge theory with postal authorities' efforts to influence road safety behavior through postage stamps. Through analysis of 571 traffic safety-related stamps issued by 119 countries between 1932-2023, we investigate how postal authorities have engaged in behavioral change efforts and evaluate their potential effectiveness. Our findings reveal distinct patterns in stamp issuance, with peak periods coinciding with global road safety initiatives. Germany (19 stamps), Cuba (17), Russia (17), and Surinam (17) emerged as the most active issuers, suggesting perceived value in this approach. Thematic analysis identified primary focuses on general traffic safety (42%), children's safety (23%), and anti-drunk driving campaigns (15%). While direct causation between stamp campaigns and behavior change remains challenging to establish, our research indicates that countries repeatedly issuing such stamps perceived sufficient value to continue the practice. This study considers how these historical nudge efforts might evolve in an increasingly digital age, suggesting new strategies for communicating similar messages through modern media.
Keywords: Nudge Theory; Road Safety; Traffic Safety; Postage Stamps
Citation
Fried G, Atkinson CL, Walczak S, Alibašić H. Nudge Theory and Road Safety. WebLog J Public Health Epidemiol. wjphe.2025.i1901. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17282699