Economic Perspectives on Addiction: Hyperbolic Discounting and Internalities

Fritz L. Laux and Richard M. Peck
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Fritz L. Laux: Northeastern State University
Richard M. Peck: University of Illinois at Chicago

Journal of Economic Insight, 2009, vol. 35, issue 2, 1-22

Abstract: This paper provides an introduction, with critical interpretations, to the use of hyperbolic discounting as a model of behavior for the consumption of addictive goods. The exponential and hyperbolic discounting models are carefully reviewed, with particular emphasis on the implications for time consistency. We then present a simple explanation of the logic of market failure resulting from internalities and the economic inefficiency that can result when time inconsistent choices have intertemporal impacts. We then briefly review, with commentary, key work from the experimental and broader empirical literature that can be used to assess and critique the hyperbolic discounting model.

JEL-codes: I12 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2009
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:mve:journl:v:35:y:2009:i:2:p:1-22

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