In: Economics
Explain, using the Edgeworth Box diagram, how relative prices adjust to ensure that a general equilibrium is achieved in a competitive market economy. Discuss the First and Second Fundamental Theorems of Welfare Economics.
If the economy attains equilibrium at the allocation specified in
the diagram along with the price vector p*, any other price vector
will not lead to this allocation. In fact, any other price vector
such as p will not lead to any equilibrium allocation. That is, at
any other price vector, Walras' Law will not be satisfied; total
demand for the goods will not be equal to the total endowment of
the two goods. If the economy starts off from price vector p, it
will gradually move toward the price vector p* to attain WEA at the
allocation in the diagram till Walras' Law is satisfied.
First Fundamental Theorem of Welfare
Economics:
According to this theorem, if consumer preferences are strictly
increasing, strictly quasi concave, and continuous, any competitive
equilibrium allocation will be Pareto Efficient and will belong to
the core of the economy. That is:
Second Fundamental Theorem of Welfare
Economics:
According to this theorem, if consumer preferences are strictly
increasing, strictly quasi concave, and continuous, any Pareto
Efficient allocation can be induced as a Competitive Equilibrium
Allocation by appropriate transfer of wealth, or purchasing power.
The transfer of purchasing power entails redistribution of
endowment among the consumers.