Becker's Model of Rational Addiction

Becker's Model of Rational Addiction suggests that individuals make informed, strategic decisions about their consumption of addictive goods—like cigarettes or alcohol—by weighing current enjoyment against future health and financial impacts. It posits that addiction isn't purely impulsive but often results from rational planning, where people anticipate future consequences and adjust their behavior accordingly. Their choices depend on factors like prices, personal preferences, and expectations, meaning that addiction can be influenced by policies such as taxes or regulations, which alter costs and incentives.