(a) Is Bill risk-averse, risk-loving, or risk-neutral? Explain. (b) If Bill could buy insurance to completely avoid the loss, how much would he be willing to pay for this insurance at most? Explain.

Microeconomic Theory
12th Edition
ISBN:9781337517942
Author:NICHOLSON
Publisher:NICHOLSON
Chapter7: Uncertainty
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 7.8P
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Suppose that Bill's utility function of wealth is given by u(w) = √w, where w represents his total
wealth in dollars. Bill's total wealth is $360,000. If an earthquake happens, his wealth will be reduced
to $250,000 with the loss of his house. Suppose the probability of an earthquake happening is 10%.
(a) Is Bill risk-averse, risk-loving, or risk-neutral? Explain.
(b) If Bill could buy insurance to completely avoid the loss, how much would he be willing to
pay for this insurance at most? Explain.
Transcribed Image Text:Suppose that Bill's utility function of wealth is given by u(w) = √w, where w represents his total wealth in dollars. Bill's total wealth is $360,000. If an earthquake happens, his wealth will be reduced to $250,000 with the loss of his house. Suppose the probability of an earthquake happening is 10%. (a) Is Bill risk-averse, risk-loving, or risk-neutral? Explain. (b) If Bill could buy insurance to completely avoid the loss, how much would he be willing to pay for this insurance at most? Explain.
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