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Choice with Endogenous Categorization

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  • Andrew Ellis
  • Yusufcan Masatlioglu

Abstract

We propose and axiomatize the categorical thinking model (CTM) in which the framing of the decision problem affects how agents categorize alternatives, that in turn affects their evaluation of it. Prominent models of salience, status quo bias, loss-aversion, inequality aversion, and present bias all fit under the umbrella of CTM. This suggests categorization is an underlying mechanism of key departures from the neoclassical model of choice. We specialize CTM to provide a behavioral foundation for the salient thinking model of Bordalo et al. (2013) that highlights its strong predictions and distinctions from other models.

Suggested Citation

  • Andrew Ellis & Yusufcan Masatlioglu, 2020. "Choice with Endogenous Categorization," Papers 2005.05196, arXiv.org, revised Feb 2021.
    • Handle: RePEc:arx:papers:2005.05196
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    Cited by:

    1. Andrew Ellis & Yusufcan Masatlioglu, 2022. "Choice with Endogenous Categorization [The Adaptive Nature of Human Categorization]," The Review of Economic Studies, Review of Economic Studies Ltd, vol. 89(1), pages 240-278.
    2. Özgür Kıbrıs & Yusufcan Masatlioglu & Elchin Suleymanov, 2023. "A theory of reference point formation," Economic Theory, Springer;Society for the Advancement of Economic Theory (SAET), vol. 75(1), pages 137-166, January.

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D01 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Microeconomic Behavior: Underlying Principles
    • D11 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - Consumer Economics: Theory
    • D80 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - General
    • D90 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - General

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