Memorable consumption

A-Tier
Journal: Journal of Economic Theory
Year: 2016
Volume: 165
Issue: C
Pages: 414-455

Score contribution per author:

1.341 = (α=2.01 / 3 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

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

Abstract

People often consume non-durable goods in a way that seems inconsistent with preferences for smoothing consumption over time. We suggest that such patterns of consumption can be better explained if one takes into account the future utility flows generated by memorable consumption goods—goods, such as a honeymoon or a vacation, whose utility flow outlives their physical consumption. We consider a model in which a consumer enjoys current consumption as well as utility generated by earlier memorable consumption. Lasting utility flows are generated only by some goods, and only when their consumption exceeds customary levels by a sufficient margin. We offer axiomatic foundations for the structure of the utility function and study optimal consumption in a dynamic model. We show that rational consumers, taking into account future utility flows, would make optimal choices that rationalize lumpy patterns of consumption.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:eee:jetheo:v:165:y:2016:i:c:p:414-455
Journal Field
Theory
Author Count
3
Added to Database
2026-01-25