We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Economy

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is the Marginal Rate of Substitution?

Malcolm Tatum
By
Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 9,093
Share

The marginal rate of substitution is the rate at which it is necessary to forgo consumption of one product in order to secure an additional unit of a different product and still receive the same level of satisfaction overall. From this perspective, this type of rate can be viewed as a compromise or a trade-off that makes it possible for the consume to still meet needs or wants in an acceptable manner, even if the exact means of obtaining that satisfaction has changed. Companies as well as individuals make use of this particular economic strategy on a daily basis as they seek to maximize the return on the amount of income they have available to spend.

The key to understanding the marginal rate of substitution is to acknowledge that there is more than one way to satisfy needs and wants. The decision of which way to use at a given point in time will vary. This means that substituting one product for one or more units of another product may be desirable in a particular time and setting, while a different means of managing the substitution will provide more satisfaction at a different time.

One of the easiest ways to understand how the marginal rate of substitution works is to consider making a purchase at a fast food restaurant. The consumer has only so much money to spend for the meal, and must determine which combination of selections will provide the most satisfaction. On the one hand, choosing a daily special that includes a hamburger, French fries, and a beverage would probably satisfy the hunger. At the same time, the consumer may decide that choosing several items off the discounted menu would also calm the hunger, and make it possible to enjoy a wider selection of tastes during the meal.

By giving up or substituting the budget chicken tenders, a small beverage, an small order of onion rings, a small hamburger, and a small salad for the daily special, the consumer gives up the pleasure of eating the super-sized hamburger and larger order of fries. At the same time, he or she gains the benefit of enjoying a more varied meal, without spending any more money.

Another example of employing the marginal rate of substitution in the same setting would be making a decision between purchasing hamburgers or hot dogs. Assuming that two hot dogs cost the same as one hamburger, the consumer may determine that giving up that one hamburger in order to enjoy two hot dogs is an acceptable substitution. In either case, satisfaction is derived, although the decision to go with the two hot dogs may provide a little more satisfaction in terms of making it possible to consume more food without spending any more money.

Companies often use the marginal rate of substitution when purchasing materials and supplies for a business operation. By making wise choices, they may find it is possible to order a specified amount of a given supply product and receive another product that is also considered desirable at no cost. By giving up the purchase of the other brand, the company is able to not only enjoy the benefits obtained from the similar product, but also obtain a little more satisfaction from the acquisition of another desirable item.

Share
SmartCapitalMind is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including SmartCapitalMind, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.
Discussion Comments
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
Learn more
Share
https://www.smartcapitalmind.com/what-is-the-marginal-rate-of-substitution.htm
Copy this link
SmartCapitalMind, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

SmartCapitalMind, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.