Question

Balin purchases fair trade cocoa out of concern for workers' rights and environmental sustainability. He could purchase cocoa of equal quality at a lower price.
Behavioral economists would consider Balin's purchase:

a) unusual in that it demonstrates concern for others.
b) purely self-interested but motivated by something other than his financial well-being.
c) as evidence that Balin is not acting purely in his self-interest.
d) a bad decision because it ignores important information that could improve Balin's well-being.

Answer 1

Answer:

The correct option is C: "as evidence that Balin is not acting purely in his self-interest."

Explanation:

The fact that Balin actually had the choice to purchase the same quality of cocoa at better or lower prices, but however decides to purchase the fair trade cocoa which was more expensive just to show his concern for the right of workers and environmental sustainability, Behavioral economist would see this as evidence that Balin is acting not because of his self-interest but passion for the rights of others.