Abstract
Inspired by the discussion of different functions of freedom of choice (instrumental versus intrinsic value) by Sen and others and an axiomatic characterization of an intrinsic aspect by Pattanaik and Xu, we compare unique axiomatic characterizations of three classes of rankings of opportunity sets in terms of freedom of choice: First, we investigate the simple cardinality-based ranking proposed by Pattanaik and Xu and a generalization of this. Secondly, we propose a new criterion that is based on the comparison of the ranges of sets of options. Thirdly, we solve possibly occuring conflicts between these two criteria.
Article PDF
Similar content being viewed by others
Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.
References
Bossert W (1989) On the extension of preferences over a set to the power set: an axiomatic characterization of a quasi-ordering. J Econ Theory 49: 84–92
Gaertner W (1990) On Professor Sen's capability approach. In: Nussbaum M, Sen AK (eds), The quality of life, Proceedings of a WIDER Conference. Clarendon Press, Oxford
Kannai Y, Peleg B (1984) A note on the extension of an order on a set to the power set. J Econ Theory 32: 172–175
Lancaster KJ (1966) A new approach to consumer theory. J Pol Econ 74: 132–157
Lindbeck A (1988) Individual freedom and welfare state policy. Eur Econ Rev 32: 295–318
Pattanaik PK, Xu Y (1990) On ranking opportunity sets in terms of freedom of choice. Rech Econ Louvain 56: 383–390
Rawls J (1971) A theory of justice. Harvard University Press, Cambridge MA
Sen AK (1987) The standard of living. In: Hawthorn G (ed), The standard of living. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge
Sen AK (1988) Freedom of choice: concept and content. Eur Econ Rev 32: 269–294
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
I am indebted to Wulf Gaertner, Yongsheng Xu, Walter Bossert, the participants of the Economic Theory Workshop of the University of Rochester, and anonymous referees for helpful discussions and comments. Financial support by Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft is gratefully acknowledged.
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Klemisch-Ahlert, M. Freedom of choice. Soc Choice Welfare 10, 189–207 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00182505
Received:
Accepted:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00182505