📚 Learning Guide
Optimal and Sub-optimal Outcomes
hard

In the context of welfare economics, how can decision-making under uncertainty lead to sub-optimal outcomes despite achieving Pareto efficiency?

Master this concept with our detailed explanation and step-by-step learning approach

Learning Path
Learning Path

Question & Answer
1
Understand Question
2
Review Options
3
Learn Explanation
4
Explore Topic

Choose the Best Answer

A

Individuals may prioritize personal gains over societal benefits.

B

Uncertainty can lead to misallocation of resources.

C

All decisions made under uncertainty are inherently inefficient.

D

Pareto efficiency guarantees optimal outcomes in all scenarios.

Understanding the Answer

Let's break down why this is correct

Answer

In welfare economics, decision-making under uncertainty can lead to sub-optimal outcomes even when Pareto efficiency is achieved. Pareto efficiency means that resources are allocated in a way that no one can be made better off without making someone else worse off. However, if individuals or firms make decisions without complete information about risks and uncertainties, they might choose options that seem efficient but do not maximize overall welfare. For example, a person might invest in a project that appears profitable based on limited data but ends up losing money due to unforeseen circumstances. This situation shows that while the allocation may be efficient, it can still result in a loss of potential benefits for society as a whole, leading to sub-optimal outcomes.

Detailed Explanation

When people make choices without knowing all the facts, they might not use resources in the best way. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that people only care about their own benefits; It's a common belief that all uncertain choices are bad.

Key Concepts

Pareto efficiency
decision-making under uncertainty
welfare economics
Topic

Optimal and Sub-optimal Outcomes

Difficulty

hard level question

Cognitive Level

understand

Ready to Master More Topics?

Join thousands of students using Seekh's interactive learning platform to excel in their studies with personalized practice and detailed explanations.