Essay

Evaluating a Preference Claim

A student's preferences for various combinations of daily free time and final grades can be shown on an indifference map. The map contains three curves, where a higher curve represents a greater level of overall satisfaction.

Consider the following combinations (bundles):

  • Bundle A (15 hours free time, grade of 540) and Bundle D (20 hours free time, grade of 250) are both on the highest indifference curve.
  • Bundle B (13 hours free time, grade of 540) is on a middle indifference curve.
  • Bundle C (20 hours free time, grade of 100) is on the lowest indifference curve.

The student makes the following statement: "Since I get the same satisfaction from Bundle A as I do from Bundle D, it means I am willing to trade a large number of grade points for 5 extra hours of free time. Therefore, I must prefer Bundle C over Bundle B, because the 7 extra hours of free time in Bundle C are worth more to me than the grade difference."

Critique the student's statement. Is their conclusion about preferring Bundle C over Bundle B correct based on the principles of indifference curves? Justify your evaluation.

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Updated 2025-07-28

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