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Utility Maximisation as a Pathway for Maximisation of Happiness

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  • Siddhartha Mitra

    (Department of Economics, Jadavpur University)

Abstract

It is hypothesized that pursuit of human happiness is carried out through adaptive change in utility functions by drawing lessons from, in an ex-post manner, the effect of short run utility maximizing choices on utility possibilities. A reference frame for future research is designed to check the truth of this hypothesis which would draw on the methodology already in use for conducting happiness surveys.

Suggested Citation

  • Siddhartha Mitra, 2013. "Utility Maximisation as a Pathway for Maximisation of Happiness," Interdisciplinary Description of Complex Systems - scientific journal, Croatian Interdisciplinary Society Provider Homepage: http://indecs.eu, vol. 11(3), pages 302-309.
    • Handle: RePEc:zna:indecs:v:11:y:2013:i:3:p:302-309
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Bruno S. Frey & Alois Stutzer, 2002. "What Can Economists Learn from Happiness Research?," Journal of Economic Literature, American Economic Association, vol. 40(2), pages 402-435, June.
    2. Daniel Kahneman & Richard H. Thaler, 2006. "Anomalies: Utility Maximization and Experienced Utility," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 20(1), pages 221-234, Winter.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    happiness; utility maximisation;

    JEL classification:

    • I15 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health and Economic Development

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