We consider the problem of ranking sets of objects, the members of which are mutually compatible.Assuming that each object is either good or bad, we axiomatically characterize three cardinality-based rules which arise naturally in this dichotomous setting.They are what we call the symmetric...

We show that, with benevolent policymakers and fiscal leadership, monetary unification reduces inflation, taxes and public spending. These disciplining effects of a monetary union, which rise with the number of fiscal players in the union, are likely to raise welfare. Joining an optimally...

With the completion of the internal market in the EU pressures may arise to diminish social insurance budgets. In a two-country model with an (imperfectly) integrated consumer goods market it is shown that competitive member states use the social insurance tax rate as an instrument to tax...