Instantaneous Gratification

David Laibson and Christopher Harris

Scholarly Articles from Harvard University Department of Economics

Abstract: Extending Barro (1999) and Luttmer & Mariotti (2003), we introduce a new model of time preferences: the instantaneous-gratiï¬ cation model. This model applies tractably to a much wider range of settings than existing models. It applies to both complete- and incomplete-market settings and it works with generic utility functions. It works in settings with linear policy rules and in settings in which equilibrium cannot be supported by linear rules. The instantaneous-gratiï¬ cation model also generates a unique equilibrium, even in inï¬ nite-horizon applications, thereby resolving the multiplicity problem hitherto associated with dynamically inconsistent models. Finally, it simultaneously features a single welfare criterion and a behavioral tendency towards overconsumption

Date: 2012
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (9)

Published in Quarterly Journal of Economics

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Related works:
Journal Article: Instantaneous Gratification (2013)
Working Paper: Instantaneous Gratification (2006)
Working Paper: Instantaneous Gratification (2001)
Working Paper: Instantaneous Gratification (2001)
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