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A note on welfarist versus non-welfarist social welfare function

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  • Zhiyong An

    (International Monetary Fund)

Abstract

In this short paper, we build a simple model where a non-welfarist social welfare function can be transformed into and thus be identical to a welfarist social welfare function in form. Our analysis first suggests that non-welfarist methods of policy assessment can also obey the Pareto principle. More broadly, our analysis is a useful input in thinking rigorously about the formal underpinnings of standard welfare economics.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhiyong An, 2024. "A note on welfarist versus non-welfarist social welfare function," International Tax and Public Finance, Springer;International Institute of Public Finance, vol. 31(4), pages 1066-1073, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:itaxpf:v:31:y:2024:i:4:d:10.1007_s10797-023-09790-0
    DOI: 10.1007/s10797-023-09790-0
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Non-welfarist; Pareto principle; Paternalism; Welfarist;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D - Microeconomics
    • H - Public Economics

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