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Asymmetries in Information Processing in a Decision Theory Framework

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  • Luís Santos-Pinto

Abstract

Research in psychology suggests that some individuals are more sensitive to positive than to negative information while others are more sensitive to negative rather than positive information. I take these cognitive positive-negative asymmetries in information processing to a Bayesian decision-theory model and explore its consequences in terms of decisions and payoffs. I show that in monotone decision problems economic agents with more positive-responsive information structures are always better off, ex-ante, when they face problems where payoffs are relatively more sensitive to the action chosen when the state of nature is favorable.
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Suggested Citation

  • Luís Santos-Pinto, 2009. "Asymmetries in Information Processing in a Decision Theory Framework," Theory and Decision, Springer, vol. 66(4), pages 317-343, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:theord:v:66:y:2009:i:4:p:317-343
    DOI: 10.1007/s11238-007-9088-5
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    4. Athey, Susan & Levin, Jonathan, 2018. "The value of information in monotone decision problems," Research in Economics, Elsevier, vol. 72(1), pages 101-116.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    information processing; decision theory; A12; D81;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty
    • A12 - General Economics and Teaching - - General Economics - - - Relation of Economics to Other Disciplines

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