This paper describes a new approach to normative economics, combining the theory of social choice with econometric modeling of aggregate consumer behavior. We first derive a system of aggregate demand functions by exact aggregation over individual demand functions. We then construct measures of individual welfare from systems of individual demand functions. Finally, we incorporate these measures into a social welfare function, introducing ethical assumptions based on horizontal and vertical equity. To illustrate the application of this approach, we consider the U.S. standard of living and its cost over the period 1947-1985.
MLA
Jorgenson, Dale W.. “Aggregate Consumer Behavior and the Measurement of Social Welfare.” Econometrica, vol. 58, .no 5, Econometric Society, 1990, pp. 1007-1040, https://www.jstor.org/stable/2938298
Chicago
Jorgenson, Dale W.. “Aggregate Consumer Behavior and the Measurement of Social Welfare.” Econometrica, 58, .no 5, (Econometric Society: 1990), 1007-1040. https://www.jstor.org/stable/2938298
APA
Jorgenson, D. W. (1990). Aggregate Consumer Behavior and the Measurement of Social Welfare. Econometrica, 58(5), 1007-1040. https://www.jstor.org/stable/2938298
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Kate Ho, the John L. Weinberg Professor of Economics and Business Policy at Princeton University and a Fellow of the Econometric Society. Kate was a brilliant IO economist and scholar whose impact on the profession will resonate for many years to come.
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