Cultural Neuroeconomics of Intertemporal Choice

抄録

We first introduce several paradoxical findings in intertemporal choice (i.e., impulsivity and preference reversal over time) and recent findings in the relationship between time-perception and intertemporal choice. Next, we address how a relatively novel temporal discounting function (i.e., the q-exponential function) can parameterize the degree of the impulsivity and deviation from exponential discounting. Based on these considerations and concepts in cultural psychology, it is predicted that Westerners and Easterners may be different in the degrees of impulsivity and decreasing impatience. Future study directions including neurogenetic analysis of the differences in temporal discounting behavior are discussed.