Using Hicksian surplus measures to examine consistency of individual preferences

List, John A.

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Using Hicksian surplus measures to examine consistency of individual preferences

Date

2006

Authors

List, John A.

Abstract

This paper pits neoclassical theory against prospect theory by investigating several clean tests of the competing hypotheses. Consistent with previous work, the field experimental data suggest that prospect theory adequately organizes behavior among inexperienced consumers, whereas consumers with intense market experience behave largely in accordance with neoclassical predictions. The data indicate that the convergence in values occurs entirely because of lower Hicksian equivalent surplus values.