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Ambiguity and Social Interaction

Author

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  • Eichberger, Jürgen
  • Kelsey, David H.
  • Schipper, Burkhard C.

Abstract

We examine the impact of ambiguity on economic behaviour. We present a relatively non-technical account of ambiguity and show how it may be applied in economics. Optimistic and pessimistic responses to ambiguity are formally modelled. We show that pessimism has the effect of increasing (decreasing) equilibrium prices under Cournot (Bertrand) competition. We also examine the effects of ambiguity on peace processes. It is shown that ambiguity can act to select equilibria in coordination games with multiple equilibria. Some comparative statics results are derived for the impact of ambiguity in games with strategic complements.

Suggested Citation

  • Eichberger, Jürgen & Kelsey, David H. & Schipper, Burkhard C., 2003. "Ambiguity and Social Interaction," Bonn Econ Discussion Papers 23/2003, University of Bonn, Bonn Graduate School of Economics (BGSE).
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:bonedp:232003
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Ambiguity; Optimism; Oligopoly; Peace processes; Choquet expected utility;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty
    • D43 - Microeconomics - - Market Structure, Pricing, and Design - - - Oligopoly and Other Forms of Market Imperfection
    • C72 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Noncooperative Games
    • D62 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Externalities

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