Micro 1 Flashcards
The Fundamental/Basic Economic Problem
> The fact that individuals within an economy have infinite wants while there are scarce resources available to meet these wants.
As a consequence of the fundamental economic problem, decision-makers have to decide how to use the scarce resources to meet the wants and needs of individuals in society.
Scarcity
> The state of being in short-supply, especially relative to how much something is demanded.
Economic Activity
> Any time people provide a good or service in order to satisfy the needs or wants of themselves or others.
Opportunity Cost
> The value of the next best option which is forgone when an economic decision is made.
Whenever an economic decision is made, a sacrifice is made.
To meet one person’s need or want, another need or want has to be neglected.
What is economics?
> A social science.
Social Science
> Scientific study (systematic study to gain knowledge and understanding of the world) of human interaction and social relationships.
Normative Statement
> A subjective statement based upon opinion which cannot be proven or disproven.
Positive Statement
> An objective, fact-based statement which could in principle be shown to be true or false.
Value Judgement
> A judgement about what is good or bad, important or valuable, based upon subjective opinion, which informs economic and political decision making.