Publication Date
2008
Publication Title
Public Law & Legal Theory
Abstract
A behavioral economics literature identifies how behaviorally-derived assumptions affect the economic analysis of criminal law and public law enforcement. We review and extend that literature. Specifically, we consider the effect of cognitive biases, prospect theory, hedonic adaptation, hyperbolic discounting, fairness preferences, and other deviations from standard economic assumptions on the optimal rules for deterring potential offenders and for regulating (or motivating) potential crime victims, legislators, police, prosecutors, judges, and juries.
Number
244
Recommended Citation
Thomas S. Ulen & Richard H. McAdams, "Behavioral Criminal Law and Economics" (University of Chicago Public Law & Legal Theory Working Paper No. 244, 2008).
Additional Information
Chicago Unbound includes both works in progress and final versions of articles. Please be aware that a more recent version of this article may be available on Chicago Unbound, SSRN or elsewhere.