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Prices vs. Quantities: Robust Regulation

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  • Zi Yang Kang

Abstract

This paper revisits the classic instrument choice problem in a setting with consumption externalities, through the lens of robust mechanism design. A regulator can implement any incentive-compatible policy but is uncertain about how individual demand is correlated with marginal externalities, and evaluates policies by worst-case welfare. The optimal policy is a quantity control: a floor for positive externalities and a ceiling for negative externalities. If the sign of the correlation is known, a uniform tax or subsidy can be optimal. The framework also applies to regulatory uncertainty and costly screening, providing a welfare-based explanation for the prevalence of non-price policies.

Suggested Citation

  • Zi Yang Kang, 2026. "Prices vs. Quantities: Robust Regulation," Papers 2603.15832, arXiv.org.
    • Handle: RePEc:arx:papers:2603.15832
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Edward L. Glaeser & Andrei Shleifer, 2001. "A Reason for Quantity Regulation," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 91(2), pages 431-435, May.
    2. W. Kip Viscusi & Joseph E. Harrington & John M. Vernon, 2005. "Economics of Regulation and Antitrust, 4th Edition," MIT Press Books, The MIT Press, edition 4, volume 1, number 026222075x, December.
    3. Christopher R. Knittel & Ryan Sandler, 2018. "The Welfare Impact of Second-Best Uniform-Pigouvian Taxation: Evidence from Transportation," American Economic Journal: Economic Policy, American Economic Association, vol. 10(4), pages 211-242, November.
    4. Steven Shavell, 1984. "A Model of the Optimal Use of Liability and Safety Regulation," RAND Journal of Economics, The RAND Corporation, vol. 15(2), pages 271-280, Summer.
    5. Daniel Walton & Gabriel Carroll, 2022. "A General Framework for Robust Contracting Models," Econometrica, Econometric Society, vol. 90(5), pages 2129-2159, September.
    6. Alexander Frankel, 2014. "Aligned Delegation," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 104(1), pages 66-83, January.
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