Save a life or receive cash? Which do recipients want?

Abstract

The value of a statistical life (VSL) for low-income individuals in Ghana and Kenya was estimated using various methods. Results suggest that individuals place higher value on life than predicted by extrapolations from high-income countries. The estimates were higher than the previous estimates, ranging from $38,000 to $115,000. Additionally, individuals consistently placed a higher value on young children relative to older children and adults. This is in contrast to previous moral weights which placed more value on individuals over-5. The study highlights the importance of considering the preferences and values of individuals in decision-making processes for international development. – AI-generated abstract.