Christian Traxler

Prof. Dr. Christian Traxler is a Professor of Economics at the Hertie School of Governance. His research focuses on tax system design in weak institutional contexts, tax enforcement strategies, and the economic analysis of crime. He examines how institutional frameworks influence illegal behaviors such as tax evasion, alcohol consumption, and gun ownership. His work also explores interactions between formal law enforcement (e.g., police, courts) and informal social norms.

Research Themes:

• Optimal tax systems in environments prone to tax avoidance/evasion
• Causal impacts of regulations on crime-related behaviors
• Interplay between legal institutions and social enforcement mechanisms