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The relationship between Mathematical Utility Theory and the Integrability Problem: some arguments in favour

Author

Listed:
  • J. C. R. Alcantud

    (Universidad de Salamanca)

  • G. Bosi

    (Università di Trieste)

  • C. Rodríguez-Palmero

    (Universidad de Valladolid)

  • M. Zuanon

    (Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore)

Abstract

The resort to utility-theoretical issues will permit us to propose a constructive procedure for deriving a homogeneous of degree one, continuous function that gives raise to a primitive demand function under suitably mild conditions. This constitutes the first elementary proof of a necessary and sufficient condition for an integrability problem to have a solution by continuous (subjective utility) functions. Such achievement reinforces the relevance of a technique that was succesfully formalized in Alcantud and Rodríguez-Palmero (2001). The analysis of these two works exposes deep relationships between two apparently separate fields: mathematical utility theory and the revealed preference approach to the integrability problem.

Suggested Citation

  • J. C. R. Alcantud & G. Bosi & C. Rodríguez-Palmero & M. Zuanon, 2003. "The relationship between Mathematical Utility Theory and the Integrability Problem: some arguments in favour," Microeconomics 0308002, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:wpa:wuwpmi:0308002
    Note: Type of Document - Tex; prepared on PC; to print on HP; pages: 25 ; figures: none
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    4. Liu, Pak-Wai & Wong, Kam-Chau, 2000. "Revealed homothetic preference and technology," Journal of Mathematical Economics, Elsevier, vol. 34(3), pages 287-314, November.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Strong Axiom of Homothetic Revelation; revealed preference; continuous homogeneous of degree one utility; integrability of demand.;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D11 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - Consumer Economics: Theory

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