Difficulties in the use of equivalence scales for normative purpsoses

Can we make welfare comparisons of households of different characteristics on the basis of their observed behavior in relation to cornmodity demands? This paper reviews sorne of the fundamental difficulties encountered in the attempt to use the concept oí an equivalence scale as a vehic1e for introducing demographics and other characteristics into empirical demand analysis and, at the same time, for establishing interpersonal comparisons oí wel1-being