The Student Room Group

Maths in econ

All individuals in Pseudopolis have identical wealth A. Each individual has an independent probability
p of a loss of value X where both p and X can differ across individuals. Half the individuals live on
the left bank of the river and half on the right bank. If they live on the left bank, they are subject to
an identical independent risk of a loss of value X = L with probability p = π, where L and π are the
same for all individuals on that bank. If they live on the right bank, they are subject to an identical
independent risk of the loss of value X = M with probability p = φ, where M and φ are the same
for all individuals on that bank.
Individuals all make choices so as to maximise their expected utility
(1 p) υ (W0) + p υ (W1)
where υ is a within-state utility function given by υ(W) = where β < 1, W0 is wealth in the
event of no loss and W1 is wealth in the event of loss.
(a) Assuming no insurance is available, give a condition in terms of φ/π for those living on the
right bank to have higher average wealth. Also, give a condition in terms of φ/π for those
on the right bank to have higher expected utility. Explain the differences in these two sets of
conditions Can someone help please

Quick Reply

Latest