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Fechner’s strong utility model for choice among n>2 alternatives: Risky lotteries, Savage acts, and intertemporal payoffs

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  • Blavatskyy, Pavlo

Abstract

This paper generalizes a classic Fechner model (also known as strong utility) of probabilistic/stochastic binary choice to choice among several alternatives. Special cases of the model include Luce’s choice model, multivariate probit and deterministic preferences. The proposed model can be interpreted as an econometric model of discrete choice with correlated random errors additive on the (latent) utility scale. Behavioral characterization/axiomatization of the model is provided for choice under risk (with expected utility), uncertainty/ambiguity (with subjective expected utility) and intertemporal choice (with additively separable utility that includes constant discounting, quasi-hyperbolic discounting, generalized hyperbolic discounting and liminal discounting as special cases).

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  • Blavatskyy, Pavlo, 2018. "Fechner’s strong utility model for choice among n>2 alternatives: Risky lotteries, Savage acts, and intertemporal payoffs," Journal of Mathematical Economics, Elsevier, vol. 79(C), pages 75-82.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:mateco:v:79:y:2018:i:c:p:75-82
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jmateco.2018.08.005
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    Cited by:

    1. Matthew Ryan, 2021. "Stochastic expected utility for binary choice: a ‘modular’ axiomatic foundation," Economic Theory, Springer;Society for the Advancement of Economic Theory (SAET), vol. 72(2), pages 641-669, September.
    2. Pennesi, Daniele, 2021. "Intertemporal discrete choice," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 186(C), pages 690-706.
    3. Pavlo R. Blavatskyy, 2024. "Harmonic choice model," Theory and Decision, Springer, vol. 96(1), pages 49-69, February.
    4. Pavlo R. Blavatskyy, 2020. "Dual choice axiom and probabilistic choice," Journal of Risk and Uncertainty, Springer, vol. 61(1), pages 25-41, August.

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