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Continuous Preference Orderings Representable By Utility Functions

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  • Carlos Hervés‐Beloso
  • Hugo del Valle‐Inclán Cruces

Abstract

This paper surveys the conditions under which it is possible to represent a continuous preference ordering using utility functions. We start with a historical perspective on the notions of utility and preferences, continue by defining the mathematical concepts employed in this literature, and then list several key contributions to the topic of representability. These contributions concern both the preference orderings and the spaces where they are defined. For any continuous preference ordering, we show the need for separability and the sufficiency of connectedness and separability, or second countability, of the space where it is defined. We emphasize the need for separability by showing that in any nonseparable metric space, there are continuous preference orderings without utility representation. However, by reinforcing connectedness, we show that countably boundedness of the preference ordering is a necessary and sufficient condition for the existence of a (continuous) utility representation. Finally, we discuss the special case of strictly monotonic preferences.

Suggested Citation

  • Carlos Hervés‐Beloso & Hugo del Valle‐Inclán Cruces, 2019. "Continuous Preference Orderings Representable By Utility Functions," Journal of Economic Surveys, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 33(1), pages 179-194, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:jecsur:v:33:y:2019:i:1:p:179-194
    DOI: 10.1111/joes.12259
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    Cited by:

    1. Uyanik, Metin & Khan, M. Ali, 2022. "The continuity postulate in economic theory: A deconstruction and an integration," Journal of Mathematical Economics, Elsevier, vol. 101(C).
    2. M. Ali Khan & Metin Uyanık, 2021. "Topological connectedness and behavioral assumptions on preferences: a two-way relationship," Economic Theory, Springer;Society for the Advancement of Economic Theory (SAET), vol. 71(2), pages 411-460, March.
    3. Dan Qin, 2021. "A Note on Numerical Representations of Nested System of Strict Partial Orders," Games, MDPI, vol. 12(3), pages 1-9, July.

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