Discounting small probabilities solves the intrapersonal addition paradox

Abstract

This article argues that one can solve the Intrapersonal Addition Paradox by discounting very small probabilities down to zero. The Repugnant Conclusion does not follow from its intrapersonal analogue because the premise of Weak Pareto for Equal Risk is unjustified due to the cumulative nature of probabilities if one engages in Nicolausian discounting. Additionally, this principle allows the infliction of harms for little or no benefits when combined with Nicolausian discounting. Therefore, in order to make reasonable decisions, one must abandon the aforementioned Pareto principle and accept that very small probabilities have no prudential or moral significance. – AI-generated abstract.