The economist's view that complete elimination of pollution is undesirable stems from
A) indifference to social problems.
B) too much emphasis on profit maximization.
C) an inability to model the problem.
D) a comparison of the marginal benefit to the marginal cost.
E) a belief that pollution is desirable.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Economists believe in the principle of marginal analysis - comparing the marginal benefit to the marginal cost. In the case of pollution, complete elimination might not be desirable because the cost of eliminating all pollution might be much greater than the benefits. Thus, a balance needs to be struck between the benefits of reducing pollution and the costs of doing so.

The Economist's View That Complete Elimination of Pollution Is Undesirable