CONSUMER SURPLUS: The satisfaction that consumers obtain from a good over and above the price paid. This is the difference between the maximum demand price that you would be willing to pay and the price that you actually pay. For most consumers, under most circumstances, the demand price is greater than the price paid. Even competitive markets overflowing with efficiency generate an ample amount of consumer surplus.

     See also | satisfaction | demand | demand curve | demand price | price | competitive market | efficiency | producer surplus | diamond-water paradox |

CONSUMER SURPLUS, AmosWEB GLOSS*arama, http://www.AmosWEB.com, AmosWEB LLC, 2000-2025. [Accessed: March 24, 2025].

Additional information on this term can be found at:

WEB*pedia: consumer surplus

Back to the GLOSS*arama

A taxation principle stating that taxes should be based on the ability to pay taxes. The ability-to-pay principle works from the proposition that those who have the greatest income should pay the most taxes. The ability-to-pay principle is the only reasonable way to finance the provision of public goods such as national defense, public health, and environmental quality. This is one of two taxation principles. The other is the benefit principle, which states taxes should be based on the benefits received.

Complete Entry | Visit the WEB*pedia

Today, you are likely to spend a great deal of time driving to a factory outlet seeking to buy either a large green chalkboard shaped like the state of Maine or a replacement battery for your pocket calculator. Be on the lookout for celebrities who speak directly to you through your television.
Your Complete Scope

This isn't me! What am I?

-- Rick Beneteau

User Feedback