Temptation in consumption and optimal taxation

B-Tier
Journal: Journal of Economic Behavior and Organization
Year: 2023
Volume: 205
Issue: C
Pages: 687-707

Score contribution per author:

1.005 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 1.0x B-tier

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

Abstract

This article aims to integrate temptation preferences into the theory of optimal taxation with heterogenous agents and asymmetric information. Consumers are tempted to over-consume a commodity which may lead to an over-supply of labor. Resisting this temptation implies a utility cost and any policy that reduces this cost is welfare improving. We uncover novel channels for government intervention and the interaction between the welfare improving and redistributive roles of public policy. We also identify a commitment mechanism that works through the endogenous labor choice and affects the design and effectiveness of the optimal tax policy.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:eee:jeborg:v:205:y:2023:i:c:p:687-707
Journal Field
Theory
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-24