Eric tries to eat more healthfully by eliminating cookies,donuts,and similar snacks from his diet.Every day at work,however,co-workers bring in these treats and Eric succumbs to temptation.Which of the following concepts would behavioral economists use to explain Eric's self-control problem?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Behavioral economists would use the concept of time inconsistency to explain Eric's self-control problem. Time inconsistency is the tendency to give in to immediate gratification rather than waiting for a greater reward in the future, even if it goes against our long-term goals. In this case, Eric wants to eat more healthfully in the long-term, but he gives in to the immediate temptation of snacks at work.

Eric Tries to Eat More Healthfully by Eliminating Cookies,donuts,and Similar