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On fairness, efficiency and social structure

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  • Jean‐Paul Chavas

Abstract

This paper presents an evaluation of economic efficiency and fairness, with a focus on the role of social relations in fairness evaluation. Defining fairness as the absence of envy, we introduce “switching costs” among individuals in the assessment of envy. When such costs depend on social relations, our analysis stresses the importance of social structure. When fairness is inconsistent with efficiency, we propose a measure of the cost of fairness. In a market economy, we show that fairness does not affect the validity of profit maximization. But it may require non‐linear pricing. Implications of the analysis for policy are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Jean‐Paul Chavas, 2020. "On fairness, efficiency and social structure," Metroeconomica, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 71(2), pages 369-391, May.
  • Handle: RePEc:bla:metroe:v:71:y:2020:i:2:p:369-391
    DOI: 10.1111/meca.12280
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    Cited by:

    1. Wensheng Xiao & Yu Tang & Bright Obuobi & Shaojian Qu & Minglan Yuan & Decai Tang, 2023. "The Influence of Rule of Law on Government’s Sustainable Economic Management: Evidence from China," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(15), pages 1-23, July.
    2. Jean-Paul Chavas, 2023. "On the role of social rules in economic development: historical perspectives," Evolutionary and Institutional Economics Review, Springer, vol. 20(1), pages 123-139, April.

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