Libertarian Paternalism and the Problem of Preference Architecture

Abstract People often fail to make the choices that best satisfy their preferences. The design of social environment inevitably makes some easier than others. According Libertarian Paternalists, these facts justify governments nudging people towards better through changes so-called choice architecture. This is a form means paternalism. However, affects not only people's or means, but also preferences they adopt in first place. Call this problem ‘preference architecture’. article argues preference architecture constitutes fundamental challenge justificatory basis Paternalism. More generally, it explores when, if ever, government paternalism influences formation can be justified. While Paternalism cannot provide satisfactory answer, author defends contractualist account based on notion primary goods and democratic deliberation.