Examining models of social preferences and a generalized model of inequity aversion: An analysis and application

This paper argues that a generalized model of social preferences must simultaneously pass two tests; the Variety test (explain outcomes under variety, the V-test) and the Sen’s Weak Equity Axiom test (the S-test). It is shown that none of the models proposed to date unconditionally passes these tests. The paper extends the Fehr and Schmidt model of inequality aversion to a generalized model of inequity aversion which passes the two tests and parsimoniously explains interior outcomes in the dictator game and dynamics of outcomes in other games. This is done through introducing equity-bias in the Fehr and Schmidt model. The paper postulates that a player’s idea of equitable distribution is state-dependent, where the state is determined by psychological and structural parameters. The state could be fair, superior or inferior. Individuals in a fair state have zero equity-bias and split the pie evenly; those in a superior (inferior) state have positive (negative) equity-bias and accept more (less) than fair distributions as equitable

Performance of Lifelines during the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake

The Molise earthquake affected a wide rural area with sparse houses, villages and towns. The paper investigates the response of water, electric power, telecommunications, natural gas, rail and motorway systems. Despite the amount of damage to buildings, lifeline systems reported only minor damage. The damage was light not only because the event caused relatively moderate ground motion in the affected area but also because the main lifelines do not cross the epicentral region and were in a fair state of maintenance.

Isocratea

Among the writings of Isocrates the discourse ‘on the Peace’ ranks second only to the Panegyricus. Apart from its literary merits and historical importance, an additional interest attaches to this work, because it is one of the few classical writings of which an early papyrus in a fair state of preservation has come to light.

I.—On a Collection of Jurassic Cephalopoda from Western Australia—Obtained by Harry Page Woodward, F.G.S., Government Geologist—with Descriptions or the Species

The Collection of Western Australian Cephalopoda which has been handed to me for examination consists of twelve specimens, viz. two Belemnites, one Nautilus, and nine Ammonites. One Ammonite was obtained from Cape Riche, E. of Albany; all the other specimens were collected near Champion Bay. They are chiefly internal casts, and ou the whole are badly preserved: the Nautilus is in a fair state of preservation; but the Ammonites are very imperfect; the suture-line can be satisfactorily made outinonly one specimen, hence the generic determinations must be regarded as only approximate.

NOTES ON SOME CALIFORNIA MOTHS

This new form was founded by my friend, Mr. James Behrens, of San Francisco, at Upper Soda Springs, Sisikiyou County, near Mount Shasta. The hind wings and abdomen are wanting, but the fore wings are present and in a very fair state fo presevation.

XX.—Notes on an Ancient Boat found at Brigg

In the month of April, 1886, during the excavation of a pit at the Brigg gas-works, a most interesting boat, of a very primitive type, was found. The upper edges of the sides were first bared; and, as these differed from the “car wood” or buried trees which are so often found in the neighbourhood, the workmen fortunately made a further examination, instead of chopping up the timber to remove it piecemeal. It was then seen to be a boat, in a very fair state of preservation.