Economic Goals and Trade Offs Directions: As you read, circle any examples of economic goals that are valued and underline any examples of goals that are traded-off. Then answer the questions below. Student Diary A Monday, 2/1-Dad was really discouraged today. The plant where he works is old and poorly maintained. His suggestions for improvements are discouraged and ignored. I heard him telling Mom that he's tired of doing work that he hates and of getting paid the same as other men at the plant who often don't show up for work or do little once they arrive. He says they have no incentive to work. They get paid even if their work is poor. Mom reminded him we have much to be thankful for. The government provides us with an apartment, guaranteed retirement benefits, free health care, and job security. Mom tries to lift Dad's spirits. I'm not so sure he isn't right about many things. Prices for consumer goods are kept low but we have so few choices, and sometimes the stores run out of even the few things they usually have to sell. It can take hours standing in line just to get a loaf of bread or a piece of meat. Last week I stood in line for 50 minutes to buy meat for dinner and then couldn't get what Mom wanted. I took what they had, even though I knew Mom would be disappointed. I want new shoes but there are so few choices and they are not well made. My friend has a pair of blue jeans. I'd love a pair! But I'd have to buy them illegally, like he did. Monday, 2/8-I passed the entrance exam for the university, to study engineering. I don't want to be an engineer. My teachers tell me I should go to the school, because there are always jobs for engineers in the government factories. I really want to be a writer. Tuesday, 2/9-It snowed today and our apartment was cold. The government is always promising things will be better next year. I doubt it. The government cares more about supplies for the military, the space program, and Olympic sports than it does for its citizens. Thurs., 2/1 1-I took Grandma to the doctor. She has many problems, but fortunately health care is free. We waited all afternoon before she got to see the doctor. She needs an operation. The doctor says there's a long waiting list, maybe as long as a year. Friday 2/12-Mom and Dad were arguing again. Dad said what good is a guaranteed job when you don't like the work and you are not free to change jobs or start your own business. Mom points out that it's the same for everyone. Do as you're told and be happy with what you have. We don't have much but at least the government will take care of us. . What economic system does this student live in? List 3 examples of how this economy makes trade offs to accomplish its economic goals. 1. 2. 3
