Developing the theory of a socially aware, obligated economic actor in the family unit.

Stidiford, Grant. (2003). Developing the theory of a socially aware, obligated economic actor in the family unit. Honours Thesis, School of Economics, The University of Queensland.

       
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Author Stidiford, Grant.
Thesis Title Developing the theory of a socially aware, obligated economic actor in the family unit.
School, Centre or Institute School of Economics
Institution The University of Queensland
Publication date 2003
Thesis type Honours Thesis
Total pages 114
Language eng
Subjects 14 Economics
Formatted abstract Gary Becker developed a theory of the family unit that highlighted altruism as the main operating framework. In that framework he described the consumption decisions of the benefactor, some of who's utility is derived from the utility enhancement that he provides to his beneficiairy. However, upon examination of this model in the context of the real world, it is found wanting. Since his model is based around a single benefactor, it is out of touch with modem dual income households and also gives no sense of the broader social obligations perceived by family members, particularly the benefactor in his role as the allocatur. This thesis seeks to enhance the Becker model by implementing upgrades in the sense of representing the benefactor as facing social pressures (via psychologist Fishbein) and obligations (via Etzioni). The extended Becker model is then shown to open up a wide research agenda, not merely in respect of family behaviour.

 
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Created: Mon, 29 Nov 2010, 18:32:34 EST by Ning Jing on behalf of The University of Queensland Library