Semi-nonparametric Distribution-Free Dichotomous Choice Contingent Valuation

We apply a semi-nonparametric distribution-free estimator for binary discrete response data to the estimation of a dichotomous choice contingent valuation model. Using this estimator, mean and median compensating and equivalent variation can be consistently estimated without making nontheoretically motivated assumptions on consumer' preferences. The approach is illustrated using a contingent valuation survey of willingness to pay for reduction of risk of premature death due to exposure to hazardous waste. We find that a conventional parametric estimator and the proposed estimator give similar estimates of unconditional WTP, but that conditional on explanatory variables the estimates are quite different.     

A Note on Consistent Estimation of Mean WTP Using a Misspecified Logit Contingent Valuation Model

Monte Carlo evidence has shown that simple, misspecified referendum contingent valuation (CV) models sometimes lead to good estimates of mean willingness to pay (WTP). Empirical studies have found that estimates of mean WTP derived from simple parametric models often differ little from those derived from nonparametric methods. This indicates that simple models can potentially yield WTP estimators that are relatively unbiased. This note shows that very simple logit referendum CV models will estimate mean WTP consistently if the survey bids are drawn randomly from a uniform distribution.     

Do Contingent Valuation Estimates Pass a “Scope” Test? A Meta-analysis

This paper considers the scope test proposed to judge the internal consistency of contingent valuation estimates. The test is shown to be quite sensitive to the maintained hypotheses required to derive fairly precise expectations for the properties of WTP functions, and, therefore, a different approach may be needed in gauging the reliability of CV. This paper describes an approach that relies on a weight-of-the-evidence criterion and uses meta-analysis to develop a systematic appraisal of what the economic values of changes in amenity resources are. The approach is illustrated for the case of estimating people's willingness to pay for improving (or maintaining) visibility at the national parks.     

Estimation of birth rate and juvenile mortality from observed numbers of juveniles in a mammal population with normally dispersed reproduction

The increase in the number of juveniles in a mammal population with a normally dispersed reproduction is simulated using a computer. The effect of juvenile mortality and its age-dependency on the recruitment curve is discussed. The maximum number of juveniles is reached before all juveniles are born. The ratio of the period of time between the beginning of the reproduction period and the maximum of juveniles and of births (the coefficient of reduction of the apparent reproduction period) is related to the juvenile mortality rate and the ratio of the maximum number of juveniles to the total number of births. These relationships can be used to estimate the total number of births and the juvenile mortality rate from a series of counts of the juveniles. The simulation model used is programmed in CSMP-III.