ECON-CHAPTER-1-explanation-definition
ECON-CHAPTER-1-explanation-definition
For example, let's say you have $10, and you want to buy either a movie ticket or a
book. You can't have both because your money is limited. Economics would analyze
how you decide which one to choose based on your preferences, needs, and the value
you assign to each option.
The statement highlights that economics focuses on the relationship between our
desires or goals (ends) and the resources we have available (means) to achieve them.
These resources can be money, time, labor, or natural resources. Since these
resources are scarce, meaning there is not an unlimited supply of them, we must
make choices and allocate them in the best way possible to fulfill our goals
Furthermore, the statement emphasizes that the resources we have can be used for
various purposes. In our example, the $10 could be spent on either the movie ticket
or the book. Economics analyzes how different uses of resources can lead to different
outcomes and how individuals and societies prioritize and allocate their scarce
resources among alternative options
In summary, economics studies how people behave when they have limited resources
and various ways to use them to achieve their goals. It explores the choices we make,
the trade-offs we face, and how we allocate our scarce resources to maximize our
satisfaction or well-being.
When we talk about the "ordinary business of life," we are referring to the routine
activities and decisions we all make, such as what to buy, where to work, how much
to save, and how to allocate our time. Economics looks closely at these actions and
decisions to understand the reasons behind them and the outcomes they produce.
For instance, economics might explore why people choose to buy certain products or
services, how businesses decide what to produce and how much to charge, or how
governments make policies to address economic issues. By studying these everyday
activities, economics aims to gain insights into how individuals and societies
function, how resources are used, and how various factors shape our economic
behavior.
ECONOMICS is a social science that studies and seeks to allocate scarce human and
non-human resources among their alternative uses in order to satisfy
unlimited human wants and needs
* Resources - inputs
Classification: 1. Human
2. Non-human
Scarce human - man power
Non-human recources (limited)- Goods, facilities, machines, land, water
Kinds:
a. tangible goods - Tangible goods are physical objects that can be touched or felt.
Examples include books, clothes, furniture, and cars. These are the most common types
of goods that we encounter in our daily lives.
b. consumer goods - Consumer goods are products that are intended for direct
use or consumption by individuals. They are items that satisfy our wants and
needs directly. Examples include food, clothing, electronics, and personal care
products. Consumer goods are typically purchased by individuals for their
own use or enjoyment.
e. free goods - Free goods are natural resources or goods that are available in
abundance and do not have a price attached to them. These goods are not
scarce and do not require any effort or cost to obtain. Examples include air,
sunlight, and natural water bodies. While they may have value, they are not
exchanged in markets due to their abundance.
f. economic goods - Economic goods are goods that are limited in supply and
have a positive economic value. These goods require effort and resources to
produce, and they are subject to scarcity. Economic goods can be either
consumer goods or capital goods. They are typically bought, sold, or traded in
the market to satisfy human wants and needs.
NATURE OF ECONOMICS
Economics is a social science because it deals with the study of man’s life and
how he interacts with other men. It seeks to explain the “WHY” of things in the world of
economic behavior—production, consumption and distribution.
METHOD OF ECONOMICS
Economics uses scientific methods
Steps. 1. Gathering of data - Economists collect relevant information and data about
economic activities, behaviors, and trends. This data can come from various sources,
such as surveys, government reports, financial records, or experiments. Gathering data
helps economists obtain accurate and reliable information to study and analyze economic
issues.
DIVISION OF ECONOMICS
1. Microeconomics
- seeks to understand and explain the behavior of individuals (consumer,
producer, firm...) as they respond to changes in their economic environment
- studies the economy in part
Examples:
• Consumer behavior: Microeconomics studies how individuals make choices
regarding what goods and services to consume based on their preferences, budget
constraints, and the prices of goods. It looks into topics like consumer demand,
utility theory, and decision-making processes.
• Demand and supply: Microeconomics analyzes how the price and quantity of
goods and services are determined through the interaction of demand from
consumers and supply from producers. It examines factors such as consumer
preferences, income levels, and production costs.
• Production and costs: Microeconomics examines how firms produce goods and
services, considering factors such as production techniques, costs of inputs, and
output levels. It explores concepts like production functions, economies of scale, and
cost analysis.
• Market structures: Microeconomics analyzes different market structures and their
effects on market behavior and outcomes. It includes topics such as perfect
competition, monopolies, oligopolies, and monopolistic competition.
• Factor markets: Microeconomics studies the markets for factors of production,
such as labor and capital. It explores how wages, interest rates, and rent are
determined and how individuals and firms make decisions regarding the use and
allocation of these resources.
• Economic efficiency and market failures: Microeconomics examines the
efficiency of resource allocation within markets and the presence of market failures,
such as externalities or information asymmetry. It explores the role of government
intervention and policies to address these market failures.
2. Macroeconomics
- deals with the economic behavior of the whole economy or its aggregates
- studies the economy as a whole
Examples:
• Gross Domestic Product (GDP): Macroeconomics analyzes the total value
of goods and services produced within an economy over a specific period. It
examines GDP growth rates, business cycles, and fluctuations in economic
output.
• Inflation: Macroeconomics studies changes in the general price level of
goods and services. It analyzes inflation rates, the impact of inflation on
purchasing power, and the effectiveness of monetary policy in controlling
inflation.
• Unemployment: Macroeconomics examines the level of unemployment in an
economy, including factors such as labor force participation, unemployment
rates, and the impact of unemployment on the overall economy.
• Fiscal policy: Macroeconomics investigates the role of government spending,
taxation, and public debt in influencing economic activity. It examines the
effects of government policies on aggregate demand, economic growth, and
the distribution of resources.
• Monetary policy: Macroeconomics studies the role of central banks in
controlling the money supply, interest rates, and the overall availability of
credit. It explores how monetary policy affects inflation, investment, and
economic stability.
• International trade and finance: Macroeconomics analyzes the global flows
of goods, services, and capital. It examines topics such as exchange rates,
balance of payments, trade deficits, and the impact of international trade on
domestic economies.
• Economic growth: Macroeconomics studies the long-term expansion of an
economy's productive capacity. It examines factors that contribute to
economic growth, such as technological progress, capital accumulation, and
productivity improvements.
HISTORY OF ECONOMICS
Economics comes from a Greek word, oikonomia which means management of the
household. The housekeeper had to see to it that: (1) there is enough food, clothing and
shelter (2) that the necessary duties and responsibilities are performed by the members of
the household and (3) that their products are distributed according to necessity or custom
Bible of economics: Smith is known for his influential book "The Wealth of Nations,"
published in 1776
THE BASIC ECONOMIC PROBLEMS
goods and services should be based on the needs and wants of the
people - In simpler terms, it means producing things that people
actually need and want. For example, if people need food, clothing, and
shelter, then it makes sense to produce those items. Additionally, the
quantity of goods and services produced should match the demand or
desire for those goods and services in society.
This approach ensures that resources are used efficiently and that the
production of goods and services aligns with what people actually desire.
It helps avoid producing things that people don't need or want, which
would be a waste of resources. By focusing on meeting the needs and
wants of consumers, the economy can function more effectively and
provide goods and services that people value.
By considering both the desires of the people and the limitations of resources, we can
find a balance. We aim to produce goods and services that are in demand by the
people, while taking into account the availability of resources. This helps minimize
the cost of production and ensures that resources are used efficiently.
In summary, the basic economic problem of what to produce and how much involves
considering what people want and the limitations of resources. By understanding
people's desires and the availability of resources, we can make decisions that satisfy
consumer demand while optimizing production efficiency.
In simpler terms, when deciding how to produce goods and services, producers
consider what they want to achieve and the resources available to them.
If the objective is to minimize costs and make the most of available labor, a labor-
intensive mix is chosen. This means relying more on human workers and their
manual effort to produce goods and services.
On the other hand, if the objective is to maximize efficiency and productivity, and
there are sufficient financial resources and advanced technology available, a capital-
intensive mix is chosen. This means relying more on machinery, technology, and
physical capital to automate and streamline the production process.
problem on distribution – it is about deciding who gets to have and use the goods
and services that are produced, making sure it is fair and meets the needs of
individuals and society.
To address this problem, factors like income, wealth, and societal needs are
considered. The distribution of goods and services can be influenced by various
mechanisms, such as market forces, government policies, and social norms.
The aim of distribution is to ensure fairness and meet the needs of individuals and
society as a whole. It involves ensuring that everyone has a chance to obtain the
goods and services they require or desire, based on their circumstances and the
resources available.
In summary, the problem of distribution involves determining how goods and
services will be shared among people. It takes into account factors like income,
wealth, and societal needs to ensure fairness and meet the diverse demands of
individuals and society.
who will want these goods and services? - In simpler terms, it's about
figuring out who will be interested in and benefit from the goods and
services. This includes identifying the individuals or groups in society who
have the desire and demand for these products.
To address this problem, factors like consumer preferences, income levels, and
societal needs are considered. The goal is to ensure that goods and services are
allocated to those who value and can benefit from them the most.
ECONOMIC SYSTEM
it is a set of economic institutions that dominates a given economy
1. Capitalism:
• Example: Germany is another example of a capitalist country where
private individuals and companies own and operate businesses.
Companies like BMW, Siemens, and Adidas are well-known German
brands that operate under the principles of capitalism.
2. Free-enterprise economy:
• Example: In a free-enterprise economy, individuals have the
freedom to start various types of businesses. Examples include a
self-employed plumber offering plumbing services, a local farmer
selling organic produce at a farmers' market, or an individual
opening a small coffee shop in their community.
3. Market economy:
• Example: The Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE) in Japan is an example of
a market where buyers and sellers trade stocks and securities. It is
one of the largest stock exchanges globally and showcases the
functioning of a market economy in facilitating the exchange of
financial assets.
4. Laissez-faire economy:
• Example: Singapore is often cited as a country with a laissez-faire
economic approach. The government has adopted a minimal
intervention policy, allowing businesses to thrive with limited
regulation. The presence of a vibrant financial sector, numerous
multinational corporations, and a competitive business
environment exemplify the laissez-faire principles in action.
characteristics:
(1) private property - Private property refers to the
ownership and control of resources, assets, and means of
production by individuals or private entities. In simpler
terms, it means that individuals have the right to own,
use, and dispose of property according to their own
choices and interests.
EXAMPLES:
Residential Property: A house or an apartment that is privately owned by an
individual or a family. Examples include single-family homes, condominiums, or
rental properties owned by landlords.
Commercial Property: Buildings or spaces used for business purposes that are
privately owned. Examples include office buildings, shopping malls, restaurants, and
factories owned by businesses or individuals.
Intellectual Property: Intangible creations of the mind that are protected by legal
rights. Examples include patents for inventions, copyrights for artistic works like
books, music, or films, and trademarks(logo of Jabi – fast food chain, slogan "It's
More Fun in the Philippines," which is used to promote tourism in the country.)
for branding purposes.
Land and Natural Resources: Privately owned land used for various purposes such
as agriculture, real estate development, or resource extraction. Examples include
farms, private estates, mines, and oil wells.
SPECIFIC EXAMPLES:
1. Residential Property: A single-family house owned by an individual or a
family, such as a suburban home or a city apartment.
2. Commercial Property: An office building owned by a business or an
individual, such as a corporate office complex or a retail store in a
shopping mall.
3. Intellectual Property: A patented invention owned by an individual or a
company, such as a new technology or a pharmaceutical drug.
4. Land and Natural Resources: A privately owned farm where crops are
grown and livestock are raised, or a privately owned oil well extracting
petroleum resources.
5. Means of Production: A factory owned by a manufacturing company,
where machinery and equipment are used to produce goods like
automobiles or electronics.
SPECIFIC EXAMPLES:
1. Private Property: Examples of private property include individual homes,
privately owned land, personal vehicles, privately operated businesses,
and intellectual property rights like patents and copyrights.
2. Entrepreneurship: Examples of entrepreneurship include individuals
starting their own businesses, such as opening a bakery, launching a tech
startup, or establishing a consulting firm.
3. Consumer Choice: Examples of consumer choice include selecting which
smartphone brand to purchase, deciding where to dine out for dinner,
choosing which clothing brand to buy from, or selecting a vacation
destination.
4. Employment Opportunities: Examples of employment opportunities
include individuals being free to choose their career paths, such as
becoming a doctor, engineer, lawyer, or artist, and having the ability to
switch jobs or negotiate employment terms.
5. Investment Decisions: Examples of investment decisions include
individuals investing in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, real estate properties,
or contributing to retirement savings accounts like 401(k) plans.
SPECIFIC EXAMPLES:
1. Automotive Industry: Companies like Ford, Toyota, General Motors, and
Volkswagen compete in the market to produce and sell cars. Consumers
have the freedom to choose among different brands, models, and
features based on their preferences and budget.
2. Smartphone Market: Apple's iPhone, Samsung's Galaxy series, and
Google's Pixel phones are examples of competing brands in the
smartphone industry. Consumers can choose from various manufacturers
and models, each offering different designs, features, and operating
systems.
3. Soft Drink Industry: Coca-Cola and PepsiCo are major players in the soft
drink market, competing for consumer preferences. They offer a variety of
beverages, marketing campaigns, and pricing strategies to attract
customers.
4. E-commerce Platforms: Amazon, eBay, and Alibaba are examples of online
marketplaces that enable sellers to compete and offer products to
consumers worldwide. These platforms provide opportunities for
businesses of all sizes to reach customers and compete on factors like
price, quality, and customer service.
5. Fast Fashion Retailers: Companies like Zara, H&M, and Forever 21
compete in the fast fashion industry, providing affordable and trendy
clothing options to consumers. They compete on factors like design, price,
and speed of production to capture customer demand.
SPECIFIC EXAMPLES:
1. Entrepreneurship: An individual starts a software company to develop and
sell innovative mobile applications, aiming to generate profits through
app sales and advertising revenue.
2. Investment: An investor buys shares of a publicly traded company's stock,
expecting to earn profits through capital appreciation and dividends as
the company grows and generates profits.
3. Competitive Pricing: Two clothing retailers compete by offering different
pricing strategies. One retailer sets lower prices to attract more customers
and increase sales volume, while another focuses on premium pricing to
position their brand as high-quality and earn higher profit margins.
4. Cost Efficiency: A manufacturing company adopts advanced automation
technology to streamline production processes, reduce labor costs, and
improve efficiency, ultimately increasing profitability through cost savings.
5. Innovation and Product Development: A pharmaceutical company invests
in research and development to create new medications, aiming to secure
patents and generate profits through sales of innovative drugs that
address unmet medical needs.
EXAMPLES:
1. Collective Ownership: In a communist system, industries and enterprises
are collectively owned by the community or the state. For example, in the
Soviet Union under communist rule, major industries such as oil, steel, and
agriculture were owned and operated by the state.
2. Command Economy: In a communist system, the government or a central
authority has control over economic decisions and resource allocation. For
instance, in North Korea, the government exercises extensive control over
all aspects of the economy, including production, distribution, and pricing.
3. Classless Society: Communism envisions a classless society where there
are no social classes or significant economic inequalities. An example
often cited is the early stage of the Paris Commune in 1871, where
workers and citizens collectively governed and aimed to establish a
society without class distinctions.
characteristics:
(1) no private property – In communism, there is no private
ownership of resources or property. Everything is collectively
owned and controlled by the community as a whole. Individuals
do not have the right to own land, factories, or other means of
production.
EXAMPLES:
1. Land: In communist countries like China under Mao Zedong, land was
considered a collective asset and individuals did not have the right to own
land privately. Land was typically owned and controlled by the state or by
communal agricultural units.
2. Means of Production: Under communist regimes like the former Soviet
Union, factories, industries, and other means of production were owned
and operated by the state or by collective entities rather than being
privately owned. Private individuals or companies did not have the right to
own or control these resources.
3. Housing: In some communist countries, such as Cuba, the state or
government is responsible for providing housing to citizens. Private
ownership of houses and properties is limited, and the state plays a
central role in housing allocation and management.
EXAMPLES:
1. State Monopolies: In a communist system, the government often
establishes state monopolies, where a single entity or a limited number of
entities have exclusive control over the production and distribution of
specific goods or services. These monopolies eliminate competition from
other businesses.
2. Central Planning: In a communist system, economic activities are typically
centrally planned by the government or a central authority. The
government determines what goods and services are produced, in what
quantities, and at what prices. This centralized decision-making process
eliminates competition between businesses in determining production
and pricing strategies.
3. Lack of Private Enterprises: In a communist system, private businesses are
either severely restricted or completely eliminated. Without private
enterprises, there is no competition between businesses to offer better
products, services, or prices.
4. Price Controls: In a communist system, the government often sets prices
for goods and services. These price controls limit the ability of businesses
to compete based on price, as prices are determined by the government
rather than market forces.
5. Limited Consumer Choice: In a communist system, consumer choices are
often limited due to the lack of diverse businesses and products. The
government or central authority determines what goods and services are
produced, resulting in limited options for consumers to choose from.
SPECIFIC EXAMPLES:
1. State-Owned Enterprises: In a communist system, industries and
businesses are commonly owned and operated by the state. The
government has complete control over the means of production and
distribution, and private businesses are either restricted or non-existent.
Examples include state-owned factories, farms, and utilities.
2. Central Planning Committees: In a communist system, central planning
committees or agencies are responsible for making decisions about
production levels, resource allocation, and distribution of goods and
services. These committees determine what goods are produced, how
much is produced, and how they are distributed, leaving no room for
competition among businesses.
3. Price Controls: In a communist system, prices are often set by the
government, and there is limited or no flexibility for businesses to set their
own prices based on market demand or competition. The government
may enforce price controls to ensure affordability or to prioritize equal
access to goods and services.
4. Absence of Private Entrepreneurship: In a communist system, private
entrepreneurship is typically suppressed or heavily regulated. Individuals
do not have the freedom to start their own businesses or compete in the
market. The state controls economic activities, and decisions about
investment, production, and employment are made by the government.
5. Lack of Market-Based Exchange: In a communist system, market
mechanisms and voluntary exchange are often replaced by state-directed
distribution systems. Instead of individuals freely engaging in buying and
selling based on supply and demand, the government determines how
goods and services are allocated to the population, usually through
centralized distribution channels.
SPECIFIC EXAMPLES:
1. Government-Imposed Occupation Assignments: Individuals may be
assigned specific occupations or jobs by the government based on
societal needs rather than personal choice or qualifications. For example, a
person may be assigned to work in a specific industry or sector without
having the freedom to pursue their preferred career path.
2. State Control of Business Ownership: All major industries and enterprises
are owned and controlled by the state or the collective community,
limiting private ownership and entrepreneurship. Individuals are not free
to start their own businesses or engage in independent economic
activities without government approval.
3. Central Planning of Production and Resource Allocation: The government
dictates what goods and services are produced, in what quantities, and
how resources are allocated. There is no market-driven mechanism or
individual decision-making in determining production levels or allocating
resources.
4. Price Controls and Rationing: Prices of goods and services are often set by
the government, and rationing systems may be in place to distribute
scarce resources. Individuals do not have the freedom to set prices or
engage in free-market transactions based on supply and demand.
5. Limited Consumer Choice: Consumers have limited options in terms of the
goods and services available. The government may control or restrict
imports, limiting the variety of products that individuals can access. There
is no competitive market where consumers can choose from a wide range
of options.
1. Five-Year Plans: In countries like the former Soviet Union and China,
central planning was implemented through comprehensive Five-Year
Plans. These plans set targets for various sectors of the economy, such as
agriculture, industry, infrastructure, and social welfare. The central
planning authority determines the allocation of resources and sets
production goals to achieve the desired outcomes.
2. State-Owned Enterprises: In a communist system, key industries and
enterprises are owned and controlled by the state. The central planning
authority determines the production levels, investment decisions, and
resource allocation for these state-owned enterprises. This allows the
government to direct economic activities according to the overall
development plan and the needs of the community.
3. Price Controls: In a communist system, the central planning authority
often sets and regulates prices of goods and services. This ensures that
essential commodities remain affordable and accessible to the general
population. Prices are determined based on factors such as production
costs, distribution considerations, and social welfare objectives.
4. Resource Allocation: The central planning authority plays a crucial role in
allocating resources within a communist system. They decide how
resources such as land, capital, and labor should be distributed across
different sectors of the economy. The aim is to ensure an equitable
distribution of resources and prioritize sectors that contribute to the
overall well-being of the community.
5. Economic Development Plans: Communist systems often formulate long-
term economic development plans that outline strategies and priorities
for the nation's growth. These plans address areas such as infrastructure
development, technological advancements, education, and social welfare.
The central planning authority coordinates the implementation of these
plans to achieve the desired economic and social outcomes.
1. Soviet Gosplan: In the former Soviet Union, the State Planning Committee,
known as Gosplan, was responsible for central planning. Gosplan
developed comprehensive economic plans, setting production targets,
and allocating resources across various sectors of the economy. For
example, Gosplan determined the targets for industrial output, agricultural
production, and infrastructure development.
2. China's Five-Year Plans: The People's Republic of China has implemented
a series of Five-Year Plans since the 1950s. These plans outline specific
goals and strategies for economic development, with the central planning
authority overseeing resource allocation and setting production targets.
For instance, China's plans have focused on industrialization, agricultural
modernization, infrastructure expansion, and technological advancements.
3. State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs): In many communist countries, state-
owned enterprises play a significant role in the economy. These
enterprises are owned and controlled by the state, and their operations
are directed by the central planning authority. Examples include
nationalized industries in sectors such as energy, telecommunications,
transportation, and heavy manufacturing. The central planning authority
determines their production levels, investment priorities, and resource
allocation.
4. Price Controls and Subsidies: In communist systems, the central planning
authority often imposes price controls on essential goods and services.
For example, the government may set price limits on food items, housing,
healthcare, and education to ensure affordability and equitable access.
Additionally, subsidies may be provided to certain sectors or products to
support their production and make them more affordable for the
population.
5. Resource Allocation Committees: Central planning involves committees or
agencies responsible for resource allocation decisions. These committees
assess the needs of different sectors and allocate resources accordingly.
For instance, an agricultural resource allocation committee may determine
the distribution of land, water, and agricultural inputs among farming
communities to ensure food production targets are met.
3. Socialism
it is a combination of capitalism and communism
characteristics:
(1) major and strategic industries are owned and managed by
the state
Examples:
• Healthcare: The government may operate hospitals,
clinics, and healthcare facilities, providing healthcare
services to the population.
1. Healthcare:
• Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth): PhilHealth is a
government-owned corporation that administers the national
health insurance program in the Philippines. It provides healthcare
coverage and benefits to its members, ensuring access to
affordable medical services.
• Philippine General Hospital (PGH): PGH is a government-owned
hospital and the largest medical facility in the Philippines. It serves
as a public tertiary hospital, providing specialized medical care and
services to patients, particularly those who cannot afford private
healthcare.
2. Education:
• State Universities and Colleges (SUCs): The Philippines has
numerous state-owned universities and colleges, such as the
University of the Philippines (UP) system, which is a network of
public universities across the country. These institutions offer
quality education at subsidized or affordable rates, promoting
equal access to higher education.
• Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA):
TESDA is a government agency that oversees technical-vocational
education and training programs. It provides skills development
and certification programs to enhance the employability and
productivity of individuals.
3. Transportation:
• Philippine National Railways (PNR): PNR is a state-owned railway
company that operates commuter and long-distance train services
in the Philippines. It connects various regions and provinces,
offering an affordable transportation option for commuters.
• Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA): MMDA is a
government agency responsible for managing and coordinating
transportation systems in Metro Manila. It oversees public buses,
regulates traffic flow, and implements transport-related policies
and programs.
4. Utilities:
• Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS): MWSS is
a government agency responsible for regulating and overseeing
the water supply and sewerage services in Metro Manila and
nearby areas. It ensures the provision of clean water and efficient
wastewater management to the population.
• National Power Corporation (NPC): NPC is a government-owned
corporation responsible for the generation and transmission of
electricity in the Philippines. It operates hydroelectric and
geothermal power plants, contributing to the country's energy
needs.
• National Telecommunications Commission (NTC): NTC is a
government agency that regulates and supervises the
telecommunications industry in the Philippines. It ensures fair
competition, quality services, and consumer protection in the
telecommunications sector.
4. Security - An economic system that ensures basic necessities, social safety nets,
and protection against economic risks can promote security for individuals and
communities.
5. Justice and equity - An economic system that addresses income inequality, social
disparities, and promotes fairness in resource distribution can contribute to justice
and equity within society.
* The choice depends on particular economic interest, cultural, social and political
orientation.
ROLE OF ECONOMICS:
Maximize benefits to people….that is, the attainment of SOCIAL JUSTICE
ADDITIONAL NOTES…