Essay

Critiquing Total Surplus as a Welfare Metric

An economist proposes a new policy. Their analysis shows that the policy will decrease the total surplus (the sum of consumer and producer surplus) in a specific market. Based on this finding alone, they recommend against the policy, arguing it will reduce societal well-being. Critically evaluate the economist's recommendation. In your answer, explain at least two reasons why a decrease in total surplus in a single market might not necessarily mean a decrease in overall societal well-being.

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Updated 2025-09-23

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