Taste and Quality Perception of Attributes in Product Differentiation: An Econometric Model with Latent Variables

We study the consumers' preferences for the various attributes of a product. We consider that the consumers'choices are not guided by observed characteristics of a product, but by the quality perception consumers have on these attributes. Our model integrates this issue by means of latent variables, and is interested in the influence of the information received by the consumer on this perception. It also includes consumers' attitudes by supposing that the weight consumers put on attributes describes their tastes. An econometric application on material choices (wood vs. PVC) in the French window market valid these assumptions.quality perception, information, taste, latent variable model, wood

The precautionary principle : its implication in capture fisheries management

The paper attempts to clarify the research, management and legal implications of a potential application of the Precautionary Principle to capture fisheries, particularly in the international context. In the process, the paper also looks at related issues such as the burden of proof, the use of best available scientific evidence and technology, the reliance on prior scientific consensus, assimilative capacity and acceptable levels of impacts, etc., inthe fishery context. It is argued that, if narrowly interpreted, the Precautionary principle could lead to socio-economic havoc. If reasonably interpred, however, the Principle offers a golden opportunity to progress towards sustainable fisheries development and suggestions are made for the implementation of precautionary approaches in fisheries management. (Résumé d'auteur

L’économie des services publics locaux d’alimentation en eau potable

Il existe un débat récurrent en France sur le choix d’organisation, de mode de gestion et de régulation des services d’eau. Ce sont des monopoles locaux qui peuvent être gérés directement par la commune ou délégués à un opérateur privé. L’analyse économétrique des coûts des services d’alimentation en eau potable donne des informations cruciales sur les économies réalisables en termes de performance des réseaux et sur la gestion de la ressource. La comparaison contrefactuelle des coûts des modes de gestion (public vs. privé) montre des différences d’efficacité et l’existence de rente d’information pour les opérateurs privés.