Re: Redlining

[ichudov@algebra.com (Igor Chudov @ home)]

E. Allen Smith wrote:
> 
> From:	IN%"ichudov@algebra.com" 11-DEC-1996 19:45:12.83
> 
> >A good question. It is based on the theory that every person has a
> >"utility" function in their mind. This function determines the "worth"
> >of money and worthiness of risk. 
> 
> >If that function as a function of income is strictly concave
> 
> 	Except in the case of a consumer for whom the lower end is essentially
> no different than 0 - e.g., a minimum amount for survival - having a concave
> utility function for money (as opposed to less-convertible goods/services)
> is irrational. While I am in favor of allowing people to be irrational if they
> so desire, I am not in favor of governmental rules (e.g., coercive rules) being
> determined by irrationality. See my comments on emotion to Matt M.

Utility functions, are never irrational. I like tangerines and hate
apples, some other are the other way around, but it is not irrational.

Concavity of utility function of money (equivalence of risk-aversion)
for most consumers is an empirical fact.

I agree that rationality per se should not be mandated by the government 
rules  though.

	- Igor.