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Range-Dependent Utility

Author

Listed:
  • Krzysztof Kontek

    (SGH Warsaw School of Economics, 02-554 Warszawa, Poland)

  • Michal Lewandowski

    (SGH Warsaw School of Economics, 02-554 Warszawa, Poland)

Abstract

First, this paper introduces and axiomatizes range-dependent utility as a new conceptual framework for decision making under risk. It is a simple and well-defined generalization of expected utility theory in which utility depends on the range of lottery outcomes. Second, a special case of this framework is proposed for prediction. It is based on applying a single utility function (decision utility) to every normalized lottery range. The resultant decision utility model predicts well-known expected utility paradoxes without recourse to probability weighting. Necessary and sufficient conditions for the model to satisfy monotonicity with respect to first-order stochastic dominance are identified. The typical decision utility function, which is confirmed by both experimental data and normative considerations, is S shaped.

Suggested Citation

  • Krzysztof Kontek & Michal Lewandowski, 2018. "Range-Dependent Utility," Management Science, INFORMS, vol. 64(6), pages 2812-2832, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:inm:ormnsc:v:64:y:2018:i:6:p:2812-2832
    DOI: 10.287/mnsc.2017.2744
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    5. Michał Lewandowski & Łukasz Woźny, 2020. "On complementary symmetry and reference dependence," KAE Working Papers 2020-059, Warsaw School of Economics, Collegium of Economic Analysis.
    6. Chernulich, Aleksei, 2021. "Modelling reference dependence for repeated choices: A horse race between models of normalisation," Journal of Economic Psychology, Elsevier, vol. 87(C).
    7. Glimcher, Paul W. & Tymula, Agnieszka A., 2023. "Expected subjective value theory (ESVT): A representation of decision under risk and certainty," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 207(C), pages 110-128.
    8. Doron Sonsino & Yaron Lahav & Yefim Roth, 2022. "Reaching for Returns in Retail Structured Investment," Management Science, INFORMS, vol. 68(1), pages 466-486, January.
    9. Raman Kachurka & Michał Krawczyk & Joanna Rachubik, 2021. "State lottery in the lab: an experiment in external validity," Experimental Economics, Springer;Economic Science Association, vol. 24(4), pages 1242-1266, December.

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