On multi-dimensional envy-free mechanisms

Abstract

We study the problem of fairness design. Specifically, we focus on approximation algorithms for indivisible items with supporting envy-free bundle prices. We present the first polynomial-communication envy-free profit-maximizing combinatorial auctions for general bidders. In this context, envy-free prices can be interpreted as anonymous non-discriminatory prices. Additionally, we study the canonical makespan-minimizing scheduling problem of unrelated machines, in an envy-free manner. For the special case of related machines model we show that tight algorithmic bounds can be achieved. © 2009 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.