Based on the Type of Analysis Described in the Case

question 12

Multiple Choice

Based on the type of analysis described in the Case in Point on Preventing Oil Spills, an economist might reasonably argue that too few people die in airplane crashes if:

• A) the marginal cost of preventing airplane crashes was less than the marginal benefit of preventing them.
• B) the marginal benefit of preventing airplane crashes was less than the marginal cost of preventing them.
• C) he or she were nuts; no reasonable economist would make such a statement because even though zero airplane crashes are an unlikely outcome, the efforts to prevent them to the greatest extent possible are justified because human lives are at stake.
• D) both A and B are true.

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Definitions:

Genetic Diversity

The total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species, facilitating adaptability and survival.

Genetic Bottleneck

A sharp reduction in the size of a population leading to a decrease in genetic diversity and potential changes in the population structure.

Artificial Selection

The selective breeding of animals and plants to encourage the occurrence of desirable traits. Individuals with preferred characteristics are mated or cross-pollinated with other individuals having similar traits.

Genetic Drift

A mechanism of evolution that involves random fluctuations in the frequency of alleles of a population over time.