Ronald Coase Archives

weekly economic news roundup and noise pollution

Where a Traffic Light Could Cut Noise Pollution

To diminish the city’s noise pollution, Mumbai is experimenting with traffic lights that last longer when drivers honk too much.

economic systems

Airplane Window Shade Wars

Rather like the reclining chair debate, the battle of the airplane window shade has also become a source of passenger conflict.

Weekly Economic News Roundup and airplane seat

Transportation

How to Deal With (Airplane Seat) Recline Rage

To recline or not to recline an airplane seat is a problem for passengers and airlines because of pitch, profits, property rights, and your philosophy.

Business

Getting Bumped Off Your Flight

Instead of command and control, a reverse auction or a Coasian solution would provide better ways to manage overbooked flights and bumped passengers.

Economic Ideas

Solving the Airplane Seat Problem

According to Ronald Coase, if reclining in an airline seat creates a negative externality, both parties can negotiate because the transaction costs are low.