Generalized Utility Independence and Some Implications.
Abstract
The concept of generalized utility independence is introduced. Subject to various generalized utility independence assumptions, three functional forms for a multiattribute von Neumann-Morgenstern utility function u are derived. These are the additive, the multiplicative, and the quasi-additive form, each of which expresses u as a combination of utility functions defined on the separate attributes. It is demonstrated that if u is unbounded from above and below, then given the three forms, either reversal of preferences over some attributes occurs or the additive form must hold. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1974
- Accession Number
- AD0778324
Entities
People
- Peter C. Fishburn
- Ralph L. Keeney
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology