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Endogenous Risk Attitudes

Author

Listed:
  • Nick Netzer
  • Arthur Robson
  • Jakub Steiner
  • Pavel Kocourek
Abstract
In a model inspired by neuroscience, we show that constrained optimal perception encodes lottery rewards using an S-shaped encoding function and over-samples low-probability events. The implications of this perception strategy for behavior depend on the decision-maker’s understanding of the risk. The strategy does not distort choice in the limit as perception frictions vanish when the decision-maker fully understands the decision problem. If, however, the decision-maker underrates the complexity of the decision problem, then risk attitudes reflect properties of the perception strategy even for vanishing perception frictions. The model explains adaptive risk attitudes and probability weighting as in prospect theory and, additionally, predicts that risk attitudes are strengthened by time pressure and attenuated by anticipation of large risks.

Suggested Citation

  • Nick Netzer & Arthur Robson & Jakub Steiner & Pavel Kocourek, 2022. "Endogenous Risk Attitudes," CESifo Working Paper Series 9547, CESifo.
    • Handle: RePEc:ces:ceswps:_9547
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Heller, Yuval & NEHAMA, Ilan, 2021. "Evolutionary Foundation for Heterogeneity in Risk Aversion," MPRA Paper 110194, University Library of Munich, Germany.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    endogenous preferences; probability distortions; misspecified learning;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty
    • D87 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Neuroeconomics
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making

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