ISSN:
1617-7134
Keywords:
generic-utility theory
;
subjective equivalence of gambles
;
experimental design of utility scaling
;
C20
;
D81
;
C91
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Economics
Notes:
Abstract Using an experimental design of stating equivalent probabilities for 252 stimulus lottery pairs, Chechile and Cooke (1997) alleged to have refuted generic-utility theory which itself comprises many modern utility theories. The present paper systematically investigates the feasibility of the Chechile-Cooke experimental design using numerical methods. We examine 1,277 utility setups (involving 17 parameter sets for four probability-weighting functions and 11 parameter sets for three component utility functions) which represent ten different utility theories. Our results demonstrate that on average for more than one third of all stimulus lottery pairs no equivalent probabilities exist. That is, the Chechile-Cooke experimental design prevents subjects from stating their true probability equivalents. Therefore, they cannot claim to have refuted generic-utility theory and the members of its family.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01224765
Permalink