From Exxon to BP: Has Some Number Become Better than No Number?

The goal of this paper is to assess the academic literature written between the Exxon spill and the BP disaster in order to shed light on the fundamental question of validity of the contingent valuation, and more generally, stated preference methods. The fundamental question is straightforward:  are the values elicited from stated preference methods reliable enough to use in policy analysis and/or litigation? We will rely on theoretical developments, neoclassical and behavioral paradigms, empirical and experimental evidence, and a clearer elucidation of validity criteria to provide a framework for readers to ponder this question.