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How not to extend models of inequality aversion

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  • Engelmann, Dirk

Abstract

Several authors have made attempts to improve the explanatory power of models of inequality aversion, in particular the one by Fehr and Schmidt (1999), by adding concerns for total surplus or efficiency. In this note, I point out that these attempts are misguided because they are equivalent to a much simpler change, not requiring an additional parameter, unless we simultaneously consider games with different numbers of players. In the latter case, however, such an approach yields implausible predictions.

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  • Engelmann, Dirk, 2012. "How not to extend models of inequality aversion," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 81(2), pages 599-605.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jeborg:v:81:y:2012:i:2:p:599-605
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jebo.2011.08.007
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Inequality aversion; Efficiency; Social preferences;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C72 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Noncooperative Games
    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • C92 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Group Behavior

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