Abstract
Since its introduction by Jacobs and Bickel (1999), the hypothetical purchase task (HPT) has emerged as a frequently used methodology in behavioral economics research, particularly in studies of substance use and public health decision making. The HPT represents an approach that seeks to quantify the reinforcing value of drugs and other commodities through parametric, scalable methodology measured via self-reported consumption across escalating prices. Despite its increasing use in research settings, no comprehensive evaluation of its scientific influence has yet been undertaken. To address this gap, we conducted a two-part review of the HPT’s empirical legacy. In Study 1, we conducted a bibliometric analysis of all peer-reviewed documents citing Jacobs and Bickel (1999) through mid-2025. In Study 2, we conducted a systematic review of empirical HPT studies employing operant demand analyses to assess drug consumption. We conclude with a discussion on the legacy of Jacobs and Bickel (1999), an evaluation of the present state of the field of operant behavioral economic science in addiction, and a call for critical areas of inquiry in the use of HPTs to measure drug abuse potential.