Citation

Leiter A, Thöni M, Winner H. Int. Rev. Law Econ. 2012; 32(1): 119-128.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.irle.2011.09.002

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper provides a framework to evaluate human life based on civil court decisions on damages for pain and suffering. Using judgements from Germany and Austria over the last 25 years, we calculate an average Value of Damages for Pain and Suffering (VDPS) of about EUR 1.79 millions, with a minimum (maximum) of around EUR 0.67 (4.62) millions. Our approach also allows to calculate the value of body parts and body functions, which might be of interest if information on the benefit of an individual's change in life quality is not (entirely) available.