Behavior Quote by Eugene Fama
“Tastes and behavior are important in economics. Nobody denies that. But the question is: How much of behavior is irrational, and how much of the irrational behavior really affects prices? It turns out that's very difficult to answer.”
About This Quote
Source Book: "Foundations of Financial Economics", 2004
Economic behavior includes irrational elements, but measuring their impact on market prices is complex and uncertain.
In simple terms: Irrational actions affect markets, but it's hard to measure.
Key Takeaway
Study both rational and irrational influences on prices.
Themes
economics
behavioral finance
irrationality
prices
Mood
analytical
skeptical
Type
theoretical
empirical
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- investment strategy
- academic research
Key Concepts
bounded rationality
market efficiency
Questions to Reflect On
- What methods can isolate irrational effects?
- Do markets self‑correct irrational actions?
A Different Perspective
Quantifying irrational impact may oversimplify nuanced behavior.
