If Your Economics Class Was Graded on a Curve and Everyone

question 192

Multiple Choice

If your economics class was graded on a curve and everyone agrees to study only half as much, everyone would get the same grade that they otherwise would earn. You, however, will earn an A if you study more than the others, a C if you study the same amount as others, and an F if everyone else studies more than you. You don't like studying, but you'd rather study and get an A than get a C without studying, or study and get a C than get an F without studying. All the students in your class get together and agree not to study, but have no way of verifying if anyone does study. Do you think that this cartel will succeed?

• A) Yes, everyone will probably cut back on their studying.
• B) No, some (and maybe all) participants will cheat on the agreement.
• C) It depends on the professor.
• D) This situation is not like a cartel.

---

Definitions:

Environmental Hypothesis

A theory that suggests the environment plays a critical role in the development, behavior, or adaptations of organisms or phenomena.

Middle Childhood

A developmental stage that includes children from approximately 6 to 12 years old, focusing on growth in cognitive, emotional, and social domains.

Social Awareness

The ability to understand and empathize with the feelings, thoughts, and behaviors of others in various social settings, recognizing social cues and appropriately adjusting one’s behavior.

Self-regulation

The ability of an individual to manage their emotions, behaviors, and thoughts in pursuit of long-term goals.