A great bit of dialogue from a recent episode of House.
- Dr. Cuddy: All I ask is that you tone it down for a few days.
- Dr. House: I want that TV.
- Dr. Cuddy: We’re not bargaining.
- Dr. House: You want something. Either you’re bargaining or you’re begging.
- Dr. Cuddy: Me keeping my job is good for you.
- Dr. House: Yes, but it’s better for you. I just want us to be equally happy.
This is an excellent illustration of bargaining with non-transferable utility (that is, when money can’t change hands). Just because two people want the same thing doesn’t mean there isn’t an issue over who gets what.
