Econometrica: Mar 1991, Volume 59, Issue 2
Observing Violations of Transitivity by Experimental Methods
https://doi.org/0012-9682(199103)59:2<425:OVOTBE>2.0.CO;2-#
p.
425-439
Chris Starmer, Graham Loomes, Robert Sugden
The preference reversal phenomenon is usually interpreted as evidence of nontransitivity of preference, but has also been explained as the result of: the difference between individuals' responses to choice and valuation problems; the devices used by experimenters to elicit valuations; and the "random lottery selection" incentive system. This paper reports an experiment designed so that none of these factors could generate systematic nontransitivities; yet systematic violations of transitivity were still found. The pattern of violation was analogous with that found in previous preference reversal experiments and is consistent with regret theory.Log In To View Full Content