When we explain the choices that individuals make with the intention of achieving satisfaction, we assume that people would rather:
• Be better off than worse off – would you rather have €100 or €1,000?
• Have more of than less of – would you rather two chocolate bars or one chocolate bar?
For example, an individual (consumer) is more likely to buy an item at a lower price than a higher one, or to buy items on sale if they believe them to be better value. But not all individuals act rationally.
Irrational Behaviour
Irrational behaviour is the opposite of rational behaviour. People can be lazy when making choices, or are overly influenced by their friends, family and social media.
We can’t have everything that we want. Why? Because we have limited resources.
Impulse buying. Think IT!
• Have you ever acted irrationally when you bought a product? Explain. • Have you ever acted rationally when you bought a product? Explain.
EXAM PREPARATION!
State ‘economics’. Explain it using an example. Apply it to another unit.
2 Needs and Wants
A need is something which we cannot live without. It is necessary for our lives.
A want is something which we can live without but would like to have. It is not necessary for survival.