Altruism, Voluntary Contributions and Neutrality: The Case of Environmental Quality

C-Tier
Journal: Economica
Year: 2000
Volume: 67
Issue: 268
Pages: 465-475

Authors (3)

Pierre‐André Jouvet (not in RePEc) Philippe Michel Pierre Pestieau (not in RePEc)

Score contribution per author:

0.335 = (α=2.01 / 3 authors) × 0.5x C-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

This paper develops an intertemporal model wherein production generates pollution, which is viewed by consumers as a public bad. There are two types of consumer: those who are altruistic and leave bequests to their children, and those who are pure life‐cyclers. Both types voluntarily contribute to the quality of environment through environmental groups. It appears that, if bequests by altruists and voluntary contributions by all are positive, redistribution is neutral—which does not mean that pollution abatement and capital accumulation are optimal. To achieve optimality, one needs a tax on inheritance and a differential subsidy on all consumer contributions.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:bla:econom:v:67:y:2000:i:268:p:465-475
Journal Field
General
Author Count
3
Added to Database
2026-01-26