Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 1: Problem 17

A change in \(X\) will lead to a change in \(Y .\) The predicted change is desirable, so we should change \(X .\) Do you agree or disagree? Explain.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The decision to agree or disagree with changing \(X\) will depend on whether 1) one perceives the relationship between \(X\) and \(Y\) as causal and not merely correlated, and 2) whether the resulting changes in \(Y\) are deemed desirable within the given context. More information would be needed to make an informed decision.

Step by step solution

01

Analysis of the Problem

Firstly, we need to analyze the given relationship between \(X\) and \(Y\). We're told that a change in \(X\) leads to a change in \(Y\), and this change is said to be desirable. To truly answer the question, however, we must understand the true relationship between \(X\) and \(Y\). Do \(X\) and \(Y\) share a cause-and-effect relationship; in other words, does changing \(X\) directly cause the change in \(Y\)? Or are they merely correlated, with a possible hidden third factor causing changes in both?
02

Evaluating the Change

If we establish or assume based on the given information that \(X\) and \(Y\) are causally linked, we need to evaluate whether the change is indeed desirable. Desirability will depend on the specific context of the variables. For example, if \(X\) represents hours studied and \(Y\) represents test result, a change in \(X\) (increased study hours) will generally positively affect \(Y\) (higher test score), which would typically be viewed as desirable.
03

Formulating an Answer

Whether one agrees or disagrees with changing \(X\) will depend largely upon the interpretation of the relationship between \(X\) and \(Y\). If we agree with the presented causal relationship and find the changes in \(Y\) desirable, then we would agree with changing \(X\). If not, if for example, we view the mentioned relationship as merely correlated or if we see complicating factors that might lead to unintended consequences with a change in \(X\), we would not agree with changing \(X\).

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

A friend pays for your lunch. Is this an example of a free lunch? Why or why not?

A layperson says that a proposed government project simply costs too much and therefore shouldn't be undertaken. How might an economist's evaluation be different?

Janice decides to go out on a date with Kyle instead of Robert. Do you think Janice is using some kind of rationing device to decide whom she dates? If so, what might that rationing device be?

Why do people enter into exchanges?

Give an example of something that is a good for one person and a bad for someone else.
See all solutions

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free