Chapter 27: Problem 9

What is the double-coincidence of wants?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The double coincidence of wants is a term in economics describing a situation where two parties each possess something the other desires, allowing for a mutually beneficial exchange. This concept highlights the difficulties in a bartering economy, where finding a perfect trading partner can be time-consuming. Money, as a medium of exchange, overcomes the double coincidence of wants issue and makes trade more efficient.

Step by step solution

Definition of Double Coincidence of Wants

The 'double coincidence of wants' is a term used in economics to describe the situation where two parties each have something the other wants, and therefore can engage in a mutually beneficial exchange. In simpler terms, it means that individual A has what individual B wants, and individual B has what individual A wants.

Example of Double Coincidence of Wants

Let's consider a simple example to illustrate the concept of double coincidence of wants. Suppose that we have two individuals, Alice and Bob. Alice has apples and wants bananas, while Bob has bananas and wants apples. In this case, there is a double coincidence of wants since both parties have exactly what the other wants, and they can exchange apples and bananas.

The Challenges of Barter System

In a bartering economy, finding someone with a double coincidence of wants can be difficult and time-consuming. Imagine a situation where Alice has apples and wants to trade them for bananas. She may need to go through multiple transactions with various people who have different goods in order to finally get the bananas she desires. The introduction of money as a medium of exchange greatly simplifies this process, as it allows individuals to trade their goods and services for a universally accepted currency, which can then be used to buy the desired goods from others.

Importance of Money in Overcoming the Double Coincidence of Wants

Money plays a crucial role in solving the issue of double coincidence of wants. With money as a medium of exchange, individuals can sell their goods or services for money, and use that money to buy whatever goods or services they want. By doing so, money eliminates the need for a double coincidence of wants and makes trade more efficient. In summary, the double coincidence of wants is a situation where two parties each have something the other wants, and they can engage in a mutually beneficial exchange. This concept highlights the challenges in a bartering economy and emphasizes the importance of money as a medium of exchange to facilitate trade.

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