You Have Been Hired by the City to Determine Whether

question 140

Essay

You have been hired by the city to determine whether or not an increase in the price of tickets for the mass transit system would raise system revenues. The debate has been heated and the city council seems to be divided. One side argues that in order to increase revenues from the transit system, prices must be increased. The opposing side argues that a price increase at this time will lower revenues. What assumptions are each side making about the price elasticity of demand, and how might you determine the best course of action?

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Definitions:

Trade Unionism

A labor movement where workers unite to negotiate with employers over wages, benefits, and working conditions.

Founding

The process of establishing something, often referring to the creation of an institution, organization, or country.

Collective Bargaining

The act of discussing and reaching mutual agreements on employment terms such as salaries, working environment, benefits, and various employee rights and compensations between employers and their employees' representatives.

Secondary Boycott

A boycott of products or a company that sells the products of a company that is being struck.