Free Access
Issue
E.J.E.S.S.
Volume 15, Number 3, 2001
Evolution and Learning in Markets
Page(s) 131 - 152
DOI https://doi.org/10.1051/ejess:2001101
DOI: 10.1051/ejess:2001101


European Journal of Economic and Social Systems 15 N°3 (2001) 131-152

Implications of routine-based learning for decision making

Thomas Brenner

Max-Planck-Institute for Research into Economic Systems, Evolutionary Economics Unit, Kahlaische Str. 10, 07745 Jena, Germany.

Abstract
Various mathematical models have been proposed in the economic literature for the modelling of boundedly rational learning. Each of these models considers one type of learning, like imitation, satisficing, trial-and-error or reinforcement learning. This paper combines several types of boundedly rational learning and develops a more general learning model. Then, the characteristics of this learning model are examined for a quite general decision situation involving risk. It is studied under which conditions learning leads to an expected utility maximising behaviour. Furthermore, it is analysed what kind of deviations from the utility maximising behaviour are caused by the different aspects of learning.


Key words: Decision making, learning, mathematical modelling.


© EDP Sciences 2001