In: Economics
Consider the following items:
Which of these items is the best example of the club good? Which
of these items is the best example of a public good?
Briefly explain your choice(s).
Public goods are non-excludable and non-rival by nature. The enjoyment of a public good does not diminish the enjoyment of that good by others and it is impossible to restrict someone using a public good. Club goods are a type of public good that is non-rival in nature, but excludable.
A fish fillet is rival and excludable in nature as the one who paid for it can restrict others from enjoying it.
Fish in the ocean is non-excludable and non-rival in nature. Therefore it is a public good.
Exotic fish inside a large aquarium in a privately-owned building is excludable in nature as the owner can restrict people from entering. However, it is non-rival in nature. One person enjoying the view does not diminish the marginal benefit of another person enjoying it. Therefore, this is an example of a club good.
A free access dumpster containing a discarded fish is non-excludable but rival in nature.