Using prospect theory to investigate the low marginal value of travel time for small time changes

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A common finding in stated preference studies that measure the value of travel time (VTT) is that the measured VTT increases with the size of the time change considered, in conflict with standard neoclassical economic theory. We present a new test of a possible explanation for the phenomenon that builds on the diminishing or constant sensitivity of the value functions in prospect theory.We use stated preference data with trade-offs between travel time and money that provide separate identification of the degrees of diminishing sensitivity for time and money gains and losses. This enables us to test and potentially falsify the prospect theory explanation. We conclude that prospect theory remains a potential explanation of the phenomenon.

Original languageEnglish
JournalTransportation Research Part B: Methodological
Volume46
Issue number8
Pages (from-to)917-932
Number of pages16
ISSN0191-2615
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sep 2012

    Research areas

  • Prospect theory, Small time savings, Stated preference data, Value of travel time

ID: 181873369