What is partial ambiguity?. (19th July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Berger, Loïc
• Is Part Of: Economics and philosophy. Volume 38:Number 2(2022)
• Page Start: 206
• Page End: 220
• Publication Date: 2022-07-19
• Subjects: Ambiguity -- model uncertainty -- smooth ambiguity aversion -- Ellsberg paradox; D81; Economics -- Philosophy -- Periodicals; 330.01
• DOI: 10.1017/S0266267121000080
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0266-2671

Abstract

Abstract: This paper reflects on the notion of partial ambiguity. Using a framework decomposing ambiguity into distinct layers of analysis, among which are risk and model uncertainty, and allowing for different attitudes toward these layers, I show that partial ambiguity may prove less desirable than full ambiguity, even under ambiguity aversion. This observation poses difficulties for interpreting the notion of partial ambiguity in relation to the partial information available to determine the potential compositions of an ambiguous urn. Two Ellsberg-style thought experiments are described to challenge the meaning of partial ambiguity further, and an alternative interpretation, based on a more ambiguous relation, is discussed.