The Economics of Excess

The Economics of Excess discusses both standard and behavioral economics as they apply to addiction, indulgence, and social policy. Chapter One provides a thorough discussion of economic models of addiction. The model developed in most detail takes into account both standard and behavioral approaches. The next three chapters examine specific indulgences: smoking, drinking, and overeating. The heart of this book is its comprehensive discussion of what is often referred to as the "new paternalism.