Regret in the small and in the large

Abstract

We propose a model of local-regret behavior that allows the separation of regret behavior between random variables that are close to each other and between random variables that are far apart. This enables a reinterpretation of evidence related to intransitive behavior in the laboratory. When viewed through this paper's analysis of regret, the laboratory evidence need not imply intransitive behavior for large risky decisions such as investment choices and insurance.