消費者選好理論の系譜に係る一考察 －顕示選好理論とその周辺－

Abstract

In the consumer preference theory, discussions have been made for a long time based on the cardinal utility function theory that presupposes the measurable utility. These arguments can be traced back to Walras, however the utility functions are originally unobservable and difficult to compare and quantify with each other. Starting from this recognition, many researchers have made the ordinal utility function theory, instead of the cardinal utility, the mainstream in the field of consumer selection theory. In this paper, without assuming the existence of a utility function, starting from an observable demand function, the zero-order homogeneity of the demand function, the demand law of price and consumption, and the semi-negative constant sign of the Slutsky alternative matrix are discussed as the major outputs derived from so-called as the revealed preference theory. The light will be shed on the outline of the revealed preference theory, which has succeeded in deriving important laws and characteristics in the field of consumer preference in consumer behavior theory, as well as on its historical significance.