Questions on rational addiction: a. Why is the observation that some people rela

Question

Questions on rational addiction:

a.   Why is the observation that some people relapse into consuming an addictive substance after having quit make the rational addiction model implausible (at least without important modifications) as the main explanation for addiction? To answer this properly, you have to consider quitting and then relapsing as part of the optimal plan.

b.   Explain the meaning of “time inconsistent preferences” and why it matters for considering whether addiction is a “social problem.”

Explanation / Answer

a.
The Rational addiction model works on the hypothesis that addiction can be modified according to the rational choice. Accordingly, optimal plan is developed for people who are treated for addictions. As a part of treatment, individuals quit the addiction due modified rational choice. But, due to circumstantial reasons, they relapse. Again, they are treated for addiction. Thus, it is quite obvious the treated, people can relapse and after relapse, they can be further treated. In this way, optimal plan is executed. That’s why, the rational addiction model is considered implausible if people quit and relapse.

b.
Time inconsistent preference is a phenomenon that says that people change their preferences over time in such a manner that their preference become inconsistent with time. It creates inconsistency in choice. Time inconsistence preferences are seen in the perspective of addiction as people having addiction show the inconsistency in their preferences. It is considered as a social problem because, cultural aspects, surroundings and values proposed by the society plan an important role in defining such inconsistencies.

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