The Impossibility of Interpersonal Utility Comparison: A Critical Examination

Introduction

The concept of interpersonal utility comparison is a pivotal topic in economics and ethics, revolving around the feasibility of comparing the utility levels of different individuals. Utility, often defined as the satisfaction or benefit derived from a good or service, is inherently subjective, leading to the central question: Can we meaningfully compare the utility experienced by one person to that experienced by another? This report aims to critically examine the arguments surrounding the impossibility of making such comparisons, exploring the philosophical, methodological, and practical implications of this debate. By delving into the theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence surrounding interpersonal utility comparisons, this report will illustrate the complexities and limitations that underpin this fundamental economic concept.

Main Body

The first significant challenge to interpersonal utility comparison arises from the subjective nature of utility it