Rationalizing Choice with Multi-Self Models

Authors

Attila Ambrus
Kareen Rozen

Document Type

Discussion Paper

Publication Date

6-1-2008

CFDP Number

1670

CFDP Update Date

2012-05-01

CFDP Pages

41

Abstract

This paper studies a class of multi-self decision-making models proposed in economics, psychology, and marketing. In this class, choices arise from the set-dependent aggregation of a collection of utility functions, where the aggregation procedure satisfies some simple properties. We propose a method for characterizing the extent of irrationality in a choice behavior, and use this measure to provide a lower bound on the set of choice behaviors that can be rationalized with n utility functions. Under an additional assumption (scale-invariance), we show that generically at most five “reasons” are needed for every “mistake.”

Comments

2011-07-01

Recommended Citation

Ambrus, Attila and Rozen, Kareen, "Rationalizing Choice with Multi-Self Models" (2008). Cowles Foundation Discussion Papers. 1979.
https://elischolar.library.yale.edu/cowles-discussion-paper-series/1979