What would an economist expect if the negative incentives for bad behavior in a school became stricter?
(A) students would be less likely to break the rules because the expectations are clearer
(B) students would be less likely to break the rules, because punishments have become worse
(C) students would be more likely to break the rules because more rules are available to break
(D) students would be more likely to break the rules, because the feelings of excitement or higher
risk are increased
To determine what an economist would expect if the negative incentives for bad behavior in a school became stricter, let's analyze the options:
(A) Students would be less likely to break the rules because the expectations are clearer: This option suggests that when the negative incentives become stricter, students would have a better understanding of what is expected of them, reducing the likelihood of rule-breaking.
(B) Students would be less likely to break the rules because punishments have become worse: This option posits that stricter negative incentives, specifically harsher punishments, would deter students from breaking the rules.
(C) Students would be more likely to break the rules because more rules are available to break: This option implies that an increase in rules may lead to more rule-breaking behavior.
(D) Students would be more likely to break the rules because the feelings of excitement or higher: This option suggests that stricter negative incentives may create a sense of excitement or rebellion, leading to more rule-breaking.
Considering the principles of economics, economists often emphasize the concept of rational behavior, where individuals respond to incentives. Therefore, an economist would likely expect option (B) to be more accurate. They would anticipate that as the negative incentives become stricter (e.g., harsher punishments), individuals would weigh the potential costs and benefits before deciding to engage in rule-breaking behavior. In other words, they would expect that the increased severity of punishment would deter students from breaking the rules.