Analyzing a Controversial Market

Consider the proposition of creating an open market where university admission slots at elite institutions are sold to the highest bidder. The revenue generated would then be used to fully fund scholarships for numerous low-income students. Which of the following statements best represents an argument against this proposal based primarily on social or ethical constraints, rather than on grounds of economic efficiency or outcomes?

Match each potential market with the primary ethical or social argument used to argue against its existence.

The Price of Honor

Justifying Non-Market Goods

True or False: The argument that certain civic duties, like jury service, should not be buyable or sellable is primarily based on the principle that a market would be inefficient in selecting the most qualified jurors.

The Ethics of Queue-Jumping

Evaluating a Market for Environmental Protection

The Compromise on a Public Park

A city council is debating a proposal to allow a private, for-profit company to manage the city's public library system. Proponents argue this will increase efficiency. Three different arguments are raised in opposition. Which of the following arguments is based on the ethical view that the intrinsic character or social meaning of a service makes it unsuitable for market exchange, rather than being based on the potential negative outcomes of such a transaction?

Moral Objections to a Market for Life-Saving Medical Care