Economics Explains Why Dating Apps Suck

Dating apps are broken. Economics can explain why.

In this Econ Nerds episode, we use economic theory to understand the chaos of modern dating apps. Why do they feel like they’re full of “losers and creeps?” Why do the best users quit? And how can you avoid getting stuck with a lemon in the market for love?

We explore:
Asymmetric information — when one side knows more than the other
Adverse selection — when bad types crowd out the good
Death spirals — when markets unravel completely
Signaling theory — and how credible signals can restore trust

Through used cars, odd produce-aisle analogies, and suspiciously tall men, we break down how hidden information wrecks markets. Then we look to Nobelist George Akerlof and the noble peacock to see how you can start solving this information problem.

If you’d like to learn more about asymmetric information, adverse selection, and signaling, check out MRU’s mini-course: https://academy.mru.org/courses/asymmetric-information-how-hidden-facts-shape-markets/