I don’t do humor, unless there is a good economic point to be made. I just about fell out of my chair on this one.
Here is the start of the economist’s talk with his soon-to-be-former-sweetheart:
Susan, we need to talk. I’ve been doing a lot of thinking lately. About us. I really like you, but ever since we met in that econ class in college I knew there was something missing from how I felt: quantitative reasoning. We can say we love each other all we want, but I just can’t trust it without the data. And after performing an in-depth cost-benefit analysis of our relationship, I just don’t think this is working out.
Please know that this decision was not rash. In fact, it was anything but—it was completely devoid of emotion.
The article continues like that.
After an extended util analysis (gross 20 to 28 utils from hanging out at the bar down to net 14 to 21 after adjusting for several factors), including probability analysis and incorporating appropriate OECD statistical data where needed, he decided it was time to move on.
You gotta’ check out the full discussion:
- It’s Not You, It’s Quantitative Cost-Benefit Analysis , by Josh Freedman
(Hat tip – Carpe Diem)