Answer to Question #292627 in Macroeconomics for Arwassi

Question

Consider a government spending program you have read about in the news or research one online. In a well-composed post, explain the opportunity cost of that government decision. What was the next best alternative in your opinion? Describe how “scarcity” factors into the decision process. (Remember that all things are scarce.)

Answer 1

Opportunity cost represents the cost of a foregone alternative. In other words, it's the money, time, or other resources you give up when you choose option A instead of option B. The goal is to assign a number value to that cost, such as a dollar amount or percentage, so you can make a better choice.

Importance of opportunity cost to the Government: It helps the government in deciding which sector will receive more resources. It helps the government in making decision on how to spend its revenue in carrying out its numerous projects, e.g. the government may allocate more resources to defence or infrastructure.