Inequality aversion, social discount, and time discount rates

Purpose – This paper aims to conduct a hypothetical dictator game with social distance and time delays using conjoint analysis. Design/methodology/approach – Responses from 1,347 Japanese adults are collected through an online survey, and their responses are analyzed using a random parameter logit model. Findings – The paper finds that social preference for the present income of a stranger equals social preference for the income of an acquaintance 140 days later, of a close friend 224 days later, and of a family member 255 days later. Originality/value – The paper simultaneously estimates social preference parameters, including the inequality aversion rate, the social discount rate, and the time discount rate.