A rank-dependent utility model of uncertain lifetime
Résumé
In a continuous time life cycle model of consumption with an uncertain lifetime, we use a non-parametric specification of rank-dependent utility theory to characterize the preferences of the agent. We prove that time consistency holds for a subclass of probability-weighting function, providing the foundation for a constant rate of time preference that interacts multiplicatively with the hazard rate instead of additively as in \citet{Yaari1965} seminal model. We calibrate both models to explain the hump in the life-cycle consumption, and show that the multiplicative model is more robust.