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Fairness and utilitarianism without independence

Author

Listed:
  • Sinong Ma

    (University of Warwick)

  • Zvi Safra

    (University of Warwick
    Emeritus professor, Tel Aviv University)

Abstract

In this work we reconsider Harsanyi’s celebrated (J Polit Econ 61:434–435, 1953; J Polit Econ 63:309–321, 1955; Rational Behavior and Bargaining Equilibrium in Games and Social Situations. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1977) utilitarian impartial observer theorem. Departing from Harsanyi’s individual-centered approach, we argue that when societal decisions are at stake, postulates must not be drawn from individualistic behavior. Rather, they should be based on societal norms. Continuing this line of thinking, we state and prove a utilitarian result that, rather than being based on the independence assumption, is based on the societal norm of procedural fairness.

Suggested Citation

  • Sinong Ma & Zvi Safra, 2019. "Fairness and utilitarianism without independence," Economic Theory, Springer;Society for the Advancement of Economic Theory (SAET), vol. 67(1), pages 29-52, February.
  • Handle: RePEc:spr:joecth:v:67:y:2019:i:1:d:10.1007_s00199-017-1093-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s00199-017-1093-5
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Karni, Edi & Safra, Zvi, 2022. "Hybrid decision model and the ranking of experiments," Journal of Mathematical Economics, Elsevier, vol. 101(C).

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Fairness; Utilitarianism; Impartial observer; Social welfare function;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D63 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Equity, Justice, Inequality, and Other Normative Criteria and Measurement
    • D71 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Social Choice; Clubs; Committees; Associations

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