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Measuring Future Grandparents" Preferences for Equality and Relative Standing

Author

Listed:
  • Olof Johansson-Stenman

    (Goteborg University)

  • Fredrik Carlsson

    (Goteborg University)

  • Dinky Daruvala

    (Goteborg University)

Abstract

Individuals" aversion to risk and inequality, and their concern for relative standing, are measured through experimental choices between hypothetical societies. It is found that, on average, individuals are both fairly inequality-averse and have a strong concern for relative income. The results are used to illustrate welfare consequences based on a utilitarian SWF and a modified CRRA utility function. It is shown that the social marginal utility of income may then become negative, even at income levels that are far from extreme. Copyright 2002 Royal Economic Society

Suggested Citation

  • Olof Johansson-Stenman & Fredrik Carlsson & Dinky Daruvala, 2002. "Measuring Future Grandparents" Preferences for Equality and Relative Standing," Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 112(479), pages 362-383, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:ecj:econjl:v:112:y:2002:i:479:p:362-383
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    References listed on IDEAS

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