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Questions and Answers

Which fundamental question does every economy need to address?

  • How can the country maintain its cultural identity?
  • Which political party should be in power?
  • How can the nation win its next war?
  • What goods and services should be produced? (correct)

In a planned economy, who primarily decides what goods and services will be produced?

  • Private businesses
  • The forces of supply and demand
  • Individual consumers
  • A central authority (government) (correct)

Which of the following is a key characteristic of a market economy?

  • Centralized decision-making
  • Government ownership of resources
  • Limited consumer choice
  • Private ownership of resources (correct)

What is the primary role of government in a mixed economy?

<p>To provide public goods and correct market failures (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'invisible hand,' as described by Adam Smith, supposed to guide?

<p>The production and prices in a market economy (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a disadvantage commonly associated with market economies?

<p>Potential for income inequality (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic distinguishes a mixed economy from a purely market economy?

<p>Government intervention and regulation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential disadvantage of government intervention in a mixed economy?

<p>Risk of bureaucracy and inefficiency (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primarily facilitates the interconnectedness of national economies in the global economy?

<p>Trade agreements and technology (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor of production receives wages or salaries as its corresponding income?

<p>Labor (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the circular flow model, which market involves the buying and selling of factors of production?

<p>Factor market (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a closed economy, which of the following is NOT a primary participant?

<p>Foreign investors (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of flow represents the movement of goods and services from businesses to households?

<p>Real flow (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When government is included in the circular flow model, what direction does the flow of taxes primarily take?

<p>From households/businesses to government (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a supply and demand graph, what does the equilibrium point represent?

<p>The point where demand equals supply. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the quantity demanded of a product when its price increases, assuming all other factors remain constant?

<p>Quantity demanded decreases (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the likely result of a market price being set below the equilibrium price?

<p>A shortage of the product (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a trade union?

<p>To protect and advance workers' interests (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can trade unions contribute to sustainable growth?

<p>By promoting fair labor practices and skill development (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which economic system is characterized by primarily state/government ownership?

<p>Planned Economy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the circular flow diagram, what flows from businesses to households?

<p>Goods/Services (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At what point on a demand and supply schedule is equilibrium achieved?

<p>When demand equals supply (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of trade unions demanding significantly higher wages for their members?

<p>Potential for increased labor costs for businesses (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of 'capital' as a factor of production?

<p>A factory (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does 'entrepreneurship' contribute to the production process?

<p>By organizing and taking risks to combine other factors (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do multinational corporations (MNCs) play in the global economy?

<p>They operate in multiple countries, enhancing economic interdependence (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential impact of poor labor relations, such as frequent strikes, on a business?

<p>Reduced productivity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a market economy, if consumer demand for a particular good significantly increases while the supply remains constant, what is the likely outcome?

<p>An increase in the price of the good (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which economic system is most likely to prioritize quick resource allocation for social goals, such as healthcare and infrastructure development?

<p>Planned Economy (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How might trade unions ensure businesses comply with labor laws and health and safety standards?

<p>By monitoring and reporting violations (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a government implements a new tax on businesses operating in a mixed economy, what is the most likely direct consequence?

<p>Potential for higher prices for consumers or reduced business investment (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the items below is the best example of the 'money flow' within the circular flow of economics?

<p>A consumer purchasing a book from an online retailer (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does technology and communication most significantly affect the global economy?

<p>By enhancing economic interdependence through faster communication and trade (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider an industry where a powerful trade union consistently secures wage increases significantly above productivity gains. What is the MOST likely long-term economic consequence?

<p>Increased inflationary pressure and potential job losses as firms struggle to remain competitive (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a hypothetical economy transitioning from a centrally planned system to a mixed economy, the government decides to privatize several state-owned enterprises. However, it retains significant control over key sectors like energy and healthcare. Which conflict is MOST likely to arise?

<p>Conflicts stemming from competing interests on public oversight versus private sector autonomy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Assume a closed economy with only households and businesses. Suddenly, a large portion of the workforce emigrates seeking higher wages abroad. What IMMEDIATE impact would this demographic shift have on the circular flow?

<p>Decreased real flow from households to businesses and diminished money flow from businesses to households (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the table below, what is the most correct statement about equilibrium quantity?

Price (R) Quantity Demanded (units) Quantity Supplied (units) 5 100 20 10 80 40 15 60 60 20 40 80 25 20 100

<p>Equilibrium quantity is 60 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider a scenario where a new technology dramatically increases productivity across all sectors, but its implementation requires significant capital investment and specialized training. Analyze the MOST likely long-term impacts on factor markets and income distribution.

<p>Increased demand for highly skilled labor and capital, potentially exacerbating income inequality (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which economic system is characterized by decentralized decision-making based on supply and demand?

<p>Market economy (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a planned economy, what is the primary mechanism for determining the allocation of resources?

<p>Government directives (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key advantage of a market economy?

<p>High degree of innovation and efficiency (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential drawback of a planned economy?

<p>Lack of responsiveness to consumer preferences (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a mixed economy?

<p>An economy that combines elements of market and planned systems (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the circular flow model, what do households provide to businesses?

<p>Factors of production (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a 'money flow' from businesses to households in the circular flow model?

<p>Wages and salaries (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do multinational corporations (MNCs) primarily play in the global economy?

<p>Operating in multiple countries (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a factor of production?

<p>Money (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the income earned by land as a factor of production?

<p>Rent (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primarily determines the equilibrium point in a supply and demand graph?

<p>The intersection of the supply and demand curves (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What typically happens to the quantity supplied of a good as its price increases?

<p>It increases (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of a trade union?

<p>To represent and protect the interests of workers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can trade unions contribute to sustainable economic growth?

<p>By advocating for fair wages and skill development (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a market economy, who primarily owns the factors of production?

<p>Private individuals and businesses (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential impact of increased international trade on a mixed economy?

<p>Balancing local priorities with global competition (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the likely outcome if the market price is set above the equilibrium price?

<p>A surplus (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a country increases investment in education and training programs, which factor of production is it primarily trying to improve?

<p>Labor (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of market involves the buying and selling of labor?

<p>Factor market (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary source of revenue for governments to fund public services in a mixed economy?

<p>Taxes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the circular flow model, what is exchanged in the product market?

<p>Goods and services for consumer spending (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the likely impact of effective trade union representation on workplace safety?

<p>Improved adherence to health and safety regulations (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider a situation where a new government regulation increases the cost of production for businesses. What is the MOST likely short-term impact on the supply curve?

<p>A shift to the left (decrease in supply) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Assume a closed economy with only households and businesses. If consumer confidence declines sharply, leading to reduced spending, what is the MOST likely immediate impact on businesses?

<p>Decreased production and lower profits (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of 'entrepreneurship' in the production process?

<p>Organizing and risk-taking to combine factors of production (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor would MOST directly contribute to decreased efficiency and innovation in a planned economy?

<p>Lack of competition (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a hypothetical economy that relies heavily on agricultural exports, a prolonged drought significantly reduces crop yields. Analyze the likely impact on the circular flow of income.

<p>Decreased business revenue and potential layoffs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider a scenario where a country's government significantly increases its spending on renewable energy infrastructure while simultaneously raising taxes on carbon-intensive industries. What is the MOST likely long-term economic consequence?

<p>Shift towards a more sustainable economic model and potential job creation in green industries (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A country decides to rapidly transition from a mixed economy with strong labor protections to a purely market-based system with minimal regulation. Analyze the MOST likely consequences for income distribution and social welfare.

<p>Increased efficiency and innovation with potential for greater income inequality and reduced social welfare (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a complex global supply chain, a major natural disaster disrupts the production of a critical component used in various industries worldwide. Analyze the MOST likely short-term impact on global equilibrium price and quantity for products relying on that component.

<p>Decreased equilibrium quantity and increased equilibrium price (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nation heavily reliant on exporting manufactured goods experiences a sudden, significant appreciation in its currency's exchange rate. Evaluate the MOST likely short-term consequences for its trade balance, domestic production, and employment levels.

<p>Decreased exports, decreased domestic production, and lower employment (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a government implements a policy that leads to a significant reduction in frictional unemployment but simultaneously causes a rise in structural unemployment, what is the MOST likely overall economic outcome?

<p>Uncertain overall impact, as the benefits of reduced frictional unemployment are offset by the costs of increased structural unemployment (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Suppose a country discovers vast reserves of a rare earth mineral essential for producing advanced electronic components. However, extracting and processing the mineral requires environmentally destructive practices and displaces several indigenous communities. Analyze the long-term economic and social implications of exploiting these resources.

<p>Potential for short-term economic gains offset by long-term environmental degradation, social disruption, and potential resource curse effects (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Imagine an economy where technological advancements lead to widespread automation across multiple industries. While productivity increases significantly, a large portion of the workforce becomes technologically unemployed, lacking the skills demanded in the new economy. What are the MOST significant challenges and policy considerations for addressing this situation?

<p>Prioritize investment in retraining and education programs to equip workers with the skills needed for emerging industries, alongside social safety nets to support those displaced (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a small, isolated island economy, the introduction of a universally adopted cryptocurrency as the sole medium of exchange coincides with a severe decline in trust in the traditional banking system. Simultaneously, the internet infrastructure remains unreliable, hindering widespread adoption of digital payment methods. Analyze the MOST likely consequences for the circular flow of income and overall economic stability.

<p>Potential disruption of the circular flow due to limited digital access, volatility of the cryptocurrency, and lack of regulatory oversight, possibly leading to economic instability (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider a product market initially in equilibrium. If technological advancements reduce production costs while, simultaneously, consumer preferences shift away from that product, what is the INDETERMINATE effect?

<p>Equilibrium price will decrease, but the change in equilibrium quantity is uncertain. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a primary characteristic of a planned economy?

<p>The government makes most economic decisions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of a mixed economy?

<p>A combination of private enterprise and government intervention. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is the BEST description of the global economy?

<p>The interconnectedness of national economies through trade and investment. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where are factors of production bought and sold?

<p>Factor market (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a closed economy, who owns production factors and receives income?

<p>Households (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which flow includes wages, rent, interest, and profit?

<p>Money flow (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a supply and demand graph, what does 'equilibrium' signify?

<p>The point where quantity demanded equals quantity supplied. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of a trade union?

<p>To represent and protect the interests of workers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential disadvantage of a planned economy compared to a market economy?

<p>Less innovation and efficiency (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the circular flow model, what is the role of businesses concerning factors of production?

<p>They demand factors of production from households. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the equilibrium price when demand increases and supply remains constant?

<p>It increases (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do trade unions potentially contribute to sustainable economic growth?

<p>By fostering skill development and fair labor practices. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential effect of government over-regulation in a mixed economy?

<p>Bureaucracy and inefficiency (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following would MOST significantly contribute to the interconnectedness of national economies in the global economy?

<p>Advancements in technology and communication (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the likely result of government intervention in a mixed economy?

<p>Correction of market failures and provision of public goods (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How might increased international trade affect a mixed economy?

<p>It can expose domestic industries to competition and create export opportunities. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of trade unions successfully negotiating wage increases significantly above productivity gains?

<p>Higher consumer prices and potential inflation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does consumer spending influence the circular flow of economics?

<p>It provides revenue to businesses, which then pay for factors of production. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor of production is MOST directly improved by increased investment in education and training programs, and what is its corresponding income?

<p>Labor; Wages/Salaries (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement BEST describes the impact of good labor relations on a business?

<p>They can enhance morale and efficiency, leading to increased productivity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the profit motive most directly influence businesses in a market economy?

<p>It encourages businesses to minimize production costs and maximize revenue. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Assuming a product market is in equilibrium, what is the MOST likely short-term impact of a new government regulation that increases production costs for businesses?

<p>A shift of the supply curve to the left. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a planned economy, which factor is MOST likely to decrease efficiency and innovation?

<p>Centralized decision-making and lack of competition. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the MOST likely short-term impact if consumer confidence declines sharply in a closed economy, leading to reduced spending?

<p>Decreased business revenues and potential layoffs. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the MOST likely long-term consequence if a government increases spending on renewable energy infrastructure while simultaneously raising taxes on carbon-intensive industries?

<p>Shift towards a greener economy with potential for innovation and job creation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the MOST likely impact on an economy transitioning to a purely market-based system with minimal regulation if the original economy had strong labor protections?

<p>Greater income inequality and potential erosion of social welfare. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Analyze the MOST likely short-term impact on global equilibrium price and quantity for products relying on that component, if a disaster disrupts global production?

<p>Equilibrium price increases, and equilibrium quantity decreases. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a nation that exports goods experiences a currency appreciation, what is the MOST likely short-term effect on its trade balance?

<p>Decreased exports and increased imports (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement BEST describes the likely overall economic outcome if a government policy reduces frictional unemployment but increases structural unemployment?

<p>An ambiguous outcome, as the net effect depends on the magnitude of each change. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Analyze the long-term economic and social implications of exploiting vast mineral reserves requiring environmentally destructive practices.

<p>Short-term economic gains may be offset by environmental damage and social disruption. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the MOST significant challenges and policy considerations for addressing widespread technological unemployment caused by automation?

<p>Investing in education and retraining programs, and exploring policies like universal basic income. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the MOST likely consequences for the circular flow of income and overall economic stability, If a small economy adopts cryptocurrency, and trust in banks declines, but internet access is unreliable?

<p>Disruptions to transactions, reduced economic activity, and financial instability. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider an economy with two sectors: households and businesses. If a significant portion of the workforce emigrates, what IMMEDIATE impact would this have on the circular flow?

<p>Decreased supply of labor and reduced aggregate supply (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Economic System

An economic system organizes the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services in a nation.

Planned Economy

A system where a central authority (government) determines economic production and distribution.

Government Ownership (Planned Economy)

State owns and controls most resources, deciding what to produce, how to produce it, and at what price.

Centralized Decision-Making

A planning agency decides what and how much to produce, as well as the price.

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Price and Wage Control

Prices for goods and wages for workers are set by the government.

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Limited Consumer Choice

Fewer varieties of products are available due to state control.

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Market Economy

A system where production and distribution decisions are decentralized and made by individual buyers and sellers.

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Private Ownership

Individuals and businesses own resources (land, factories).

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Profit Motive

Producers aim to maximize profits; consumers seek to maximize satisfaction.

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Limited Government Intervention

Government plays a limited role, primarily setting basic rules.

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Free Competition

Multiple sellers compete, driving innovation and influencing prices.

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Mixed Economy

Modern economies that incorporate elements of both market and planned systems.

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Combination of Public & Private Sectors

Private businesses operate freely, but the government provides public goods and may regulate industries.

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Government Intervention (Mixed Economy)

The state corrects market failures, enforces environmental protections, or provides welfare.

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Global Economy

The interconnectedness of national economies across the world.

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Multinational Corporations (MNCs)

Companies that operate in multiple countries.

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Land (Factors of Production)

All resources from nature (minerals, water, land).

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Labor

Human effort, both physical and mental.

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Capital

Man-made resources (machinery, tools, buildings).

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Entrepreneurship

The organizing and risk-taking role that combines the other factors.

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Factor Market

Where factors of production (land, labor, capital) are bought and sold.

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Product (Consumer) Market

Where finished goods/services are bought and sold.

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Financial Market

Where financial instruments (stocks, bonds) are traded.

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Role of Households

Households own factors, receive income, and spend on goods/services.

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Role of Businesses (Firms)

Businesses demand factors, produce goods, and sell them to households.

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Role of Government

Collects taxes and uses revenues for public services.

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Real Flow

The flow of factors of production and goods/services.

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Money Flow

The flow of incomes and expenditures.

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Surplus

Occurs if the market price is above equilibrium, so supply is higher than demand.

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Shortage

Occurs if the market price is below equilibrium, so demand is higher than supply.

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Trade Union

An organization of workers formed to protect and advance their collective interests.

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Collective Bargaining

Negotiating wages, benefits, and working conditions.

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Impact of Unions on Wages

Can raise labor costs, but fair wages boost productivity.

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Workplace Relations (Unions)

Unions can improve workplace communication, but strikes can occur.

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Regulatory Compliance (Unions)

Unions ensure businesses follow labor laws and safety standards.

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Fair Wages & Sustainable Growth

Fair wages reduce inequality and boost consumer spending.

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Unions & Skill Development

Unions promote training and safety standards, raising workforce quality.

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Unions & Economic Stability

Promoting fair labor practices can reduce social unrest.

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Tripartite Cooperation

Cooperation between unions, government, and businesses.

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Advantage of a Planned Economy

The ability to direct resources to meet social goals like healthcare or infrastructure.

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Tax Burdens in Mixed Economies

Government spending often requires higher taxes.

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Risk of Bureaucracy in Mixed Economy

The potential for government over-regulation leading to inefficiency, or under-regulation causing inequality and externalities.

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International Trade

Countries export and import goods to leverage their comparative advantages.

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Technology & Communication in Global Economy

The internet and global transport networks increasing economic interdependence.

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Rent

Payment given to those who provide land resources.

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Wages/Salaries

Payment given to those who provide labor.

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Interest

Payment given to those who provide capital.

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Profit

Payment given to entrepreneurs.

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Real Flow (Factors)

In a closed economy, the flow of factors of production (land, labor, capital, entrepreneurship) from households to businesses.

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Real Flow (Goods/Services)

In a closed economy, the flow of goods and services from businesses to households.

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Money Flow (Incomes)

In a closed economy, the flow of incomes (wages, rent, interest, profit) from businesses to households as payment for factors.

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Money Flow (Expenditures)

In a closed economy, the flow of expenditures from households to businesses when buying goods/services.

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Flow of Taxes

Taxes flowing from households/businesses to the government.

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Flow of Government Spending

Government spending (e.g., public sector wages, subsidies) flowing to households/businesses.

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Relationship Between Price and Quantity Demanded

When price increases, quantity demanded decreases; when price decreases, quantity demanded increases.

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Relationship Between Price and Quantity Supplied

When price increases, quantity supplied increases; when price decreases, quantity supplied decreases.

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Market Equilibrium

The price where the quantity demanded equals the quantity supplied.

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Command Economy

The economic system historically associated with socialist or communist countries, characterized by government ownership and central planning.

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Disadvantages of Planned Economy

Inefficiencies, shortages, and lack of innovation due to absence of competition in centrally controlled economies.

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Capitalist Economy

Also known as a free-market system, it is highly influenced by supply and demand; individual buyers and sellers make most economic decisions.

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Disadvantages of a Market Economy

Wealth disparities, potential market failures, and the under-provision of public goods.

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Efficiency in Market Economies

The ability of a market economy to efficiently produce quality products and innovate, driven by competition.

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Hybrid Economy

A system that combines elements of both market and planned economies, where both the government and private sector are involved.

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Disadvantages of Mixed Economies

Higher taxes on individuals and businesses, potential inefficiencies from over-regulation or inequality.

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Government Intervention (Mixed)

Occurs when the government intervenes to stabilize the economy or provide basic needs.

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International Exchange

International buying and selling to take advantage of resources.

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Resource Market

The place where households supply factors of production and firms demand them.

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Consumer Market

Where households spend their income on goods and services and firms supply them.

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Factors Real Flow

The movement of labor, land, and capital from households to businesses

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Flow of Factor Payments

Describes how businesses pay households incomes for factors of production.

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Excess supply

Occurs when there is an excess of the items being sold relative to demand.

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Integrated Growth

Using collaboration to promote balanced, inclusive growth. Involves, unions, and the government.

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Study Notes

  • An economic system organizes a nation's production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.
  • Every economy answers these four questions:
  • What goods and services should be produced?
  • How should these goods and services be produced?
  • How many goods/services should be produced?
  • For whom should production take place?
  • The three main economic systems are:
  • Planned economy
  • Market economy
  • Mixed economy
  • Most countries use a mixed economic system.
  • The global economy highlights international trade and interdependence across national borders.

Planned Economy

  • A planned economy is also called a command or centrally planned economy.
  • These economies are historically linked to socialist or communist nations.
  • A central authority (government) determines all major aspects of economic production and distribution.
  • The state owns and controls most resources (land, factories, etc.).
  • A planning agency decides what and how much to produce, how to produce it, and at what price.
  • The government sets prices for goods and wages for workers.
  • There are fewer varieties of products available due to state control.
  • It can quickly direct resources to meet social goals (e.g., healthcare, infrastructure)
  • It has the potential to reduce income inequality through controlled wages and state programs.
  • Lack of competition can reduce innovation and efficiency in a planned economy.
  • It often results in shortages or surpluses due to flawed central planning.
  • It can create bureaucratic inefficiencies and slow decision-making.

Market Economy

  • A market economy is also called a capitalist or free-market economy.
  • It is influenced by Adam Smith’s "invisible hand," where supply and demand guide production and prices.
  • Decisions about production and distribution are decentralized, made by individual buyers and sellers interacting in markets.
  • Individuals and businesses own resources (land, factories).
  • Producers want to maximize profits; consumers seek to maximize utility (satisfaction).
  • The government plays a smaller role, mainly setting basic rules.
  • Multiple sellers compete, driving innovation and influencing prices.
  • Competition forces businesses to be efficient, produce quality products, and innovate.
  • Consumer demand encourages a wide variety of products and services.
  • Markets can generate wealth disparities, leading to income inequality.
  • Public goods may be under-provided in market economies, which is a market failure.
  • Negative externalities (pollution) can occur without regulation.
  • Government oversight may be required to ensure fair competition and protect the environment.

Mixed Economy

  • Most modern economies are mixed economies, incorporating elements of both market and planned systems.
  • Government and the private sector share in ownership and decision-making.
  • Private businesses operate freely in many areas.
  • The government provides public goods (health, education) and may regulate or own certain industries.
  • The state corrects market failures, enforces environmental protections, or provides welfare.
  • The system tries to harness the competitiveness of free markets and ensure basic social protections.
  • The government can intervene to stabilize the economy through stimulus programs or welfare.
  • Basic needs can be provided or subsidized by the government.
  • Government spending often requires higher taxes.
  • Over-regulation by the government can create inefficiency.
  • Under-regulation can worsen inequality and externalities.

Global Economy

  • The global economy refers to the interconnectedness of national economies across the world.
  • Goods, services, capital, and labor can move across borders more easily due to trade agreements, technology, and improved transport.
  • Countries export and import to take advantage of their comparative advantages via international trade.
  • Large companies operate in multiple countries, and these are known as multinational corporations (MNCs).
  • The internet and global transport networks enhance economic interdependence through technology and communication.
  • Even highly planned economies often engage in some international trade.
  • Market economies may benefit from large export opportunities.
  • Mixed economies juggle local priorities (protecting some industries) with competing in global markets.

Factors of Production

  • Every production process needs four factors of production:
  • Land (natural resources)
  • Labor (human effort)
  • Capital (man-made resources)
  • Entrepreneurship (organizing and risk-taking)
  • Each factor receives a corresponding income:
  • Land → Rent
  • Labor → Wages or Salaries
  • Capital → Interest
  • Entrepreneurship → Profit

Types of Markets

  • Factor market: factors of production are bought and sold.
  • Example: Job market (labor), financial markets (capital)
  • Product (consumer) market: finished goods/services are bought and sold.
  • Example: Retail stores, e-commerce sites
  • Financial Market: financial instruments are traded.
  • In basic economics, the focus is on factor and product markets for the circular flow.

Participants in a Closed Economy

  • In a closed economy (no foreign trade), the main participants are:
  • Households own the factors of production and receive income (wages, rent, interest, profit).
  • Households spend their income on goods and services in the product market.
  • Businesses demand factors of production from households.
  • Businesses produce goods/services and sell them in product markets to households.
  • Businesses pay factor incomes to households.
  • Government collects taxes from households and businesses.
  • Government uses tax revenues for public services, infrastructure, and welfare.
  • Government can inject money (spending) or withdraw money (taxes) from the circular flow.

Flow of Goods, Services, Money, and Factors of Production

  • There are two main types of flows:
  • Real flow: flow of factors of production from households to businesses, and flow of goods and services from businesses to households.
  • Money flow: flow of incomes from businesses to households (payment for factors), and flow of expenditures from households to businesses (buying goods/services).
  • When government is included:
  • Taxes flow from households/businesses to the government.
  • Government spending flows to households/businesses.

Demand

  • Demand measures the consumer's desire and ability to purchase goods and services
  • Law of Demand: As the price of a good/service increases, the quantity demanded decreases.
  • Factors affecting Demand:
  • Consumer Income
  • Consumer Tastes/Preferences
  • Prices of related goods
  • Expectations of future prices
  • Number of buyers

Supply

  • Supply measures the willingness and ability of producers to offer goods and services
  • Law of Supply: As the price of a good/service increases, the quantity supplied increases.
  • Factors affecting Supply:
  • Technology
  • Input Costs
  • Prices of related goods
  • Expectations of future prices
  • Number of sellers

Market Equilibrium and Price

  • Equilibrium is the market state where the forces of supply and demand balance each other, resulting in stable prices
  • Equilibrium Point is where the demand and supply curves intersect.
  • Equilibrium Price is the price at which the quantity demanded equals the quantity supplied.
  • Equilibrium Quantity is the quantity bought and sold at the equilibrium price.
  • Surplus occurs if the market price is above equilibrium, so supply > demand.
  • Shortage occurs if the market price is below equilibrium, so demand > supply.

Trade Unions

  • A trade union is an organization of workers formed to protect and advance their collective interests.
  • Primary functions:
  • Collective bargaining for wages, benefits, and working conditions
  • Representation of workers in disputes and negotiations
  • Legal and welfare support for members
  • Can raise labor costs if unions demand higher wages.
  • May improve communication between management and workers.
  • Conflict (strikes) may occur if negotiations fail.
  • Unions often ensure that businesses follow labor laws, health and safety standards.
  • Good labor relations can enhance morale and efficiency.
  • Union may push for on-the-job training, better safety standards, raising workforce quality.
  • By promoting fair labor practices, trade unions can reduce social unrest and encourage long-term economic development.
  • Tripartite Cooperation: When unions, government, and businesses cooperate, it can promote more balanced, inclusive growth.

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