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Interpersonally Comparable Utility

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  • Peter Caradonna
  • Zachary Raines

Abstract

We develop a theory of measurement scales for utility functions, based on a generalization of the notion of numeraire commodity. Every sufficiently well-behaved utility is denominated in some scale of this form, and conversely, the choice of a compatible scale unit uniquely identifies utilities up to an additive constant. We define a profile of utilities to be interpersonally comparable precisely when they are denominated in a common measurement unit. We study when profiles of comparable utilities exist, as well as how a planner ought to aggregate them, and provide applications to social choice and welfare economics.

Suggested Citation

  • Peter Caradonna & Zachary Raines, 2026. "Interpersonally Comparable Utility," Papers 2608.25043, arXiv.org.
    • Handle: RePEc:arx:papers:2608.25043
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    File URL: https://arxiv.org/pdf/2608.25043
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