Value incommensurability and the impossibility of single-threshold models

We argue that the Desperation Threshold Model’s explanatory power relies on the theoretically and psychologically problematic assumption that diverse values can be represented on a single utility scale. Many needs and goals relate to incommensurable values, implying multiple Commentary Article Click here to access/download;Commentary Article;Final_Commentary on de Courson2.docx thresholds rather than one unified threshold. Incommensurability therefore challenges both the model’s theoretical and psychological plausibility and its policy implications.