Case Study

Societal Choices: Income vs. Leisure

In 1930, a prominent economist predicted that a century of technological progress would allow people in developed nations to satisfy their material needs by working only 15 hours per week. While the predicted technological progress did occur, the average workweek has not fallen to this level. Consider two hypothetical societies that both experience this predicted technological boom over 100 years:

  • Society Alpha: Average income per person increases eightfold. The average workweek decreases from 50 hours to 40 hours.
  • Society Beta: Average income per person increases threefold. The average workweek decreases from 50 hours to 15 hours.

Based on the actual historical outcome in developed countries, which society's choice is more plausible? Explain your reasoning by identifying the key preference that the 1930 prediction underestimated.

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Updated 2025-09-13

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Introduction to Microeconomics Course

The Economy 2.0 Microeconomics @ CORE Econ

Ch.3 Doing the best you can: Scarcity, wellbeing, and working hours - The Economy 2.0 Microeconomics @ CORE Econ

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