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One of the most important axioms is, that as the quantity…

“One of the most important axioms is, that as the quantity of any commodity, for instance, plain food, which a man has to consume, increases, so the utility or benefit derived from the last portion used decreases in degree. The decrease in enjoyment between the beginning and the end of a meal may…” quote by William Stanley Jevons
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“One of the most important axioms is, that as the quantity of any commodity, for instance, plain food, which a man has to consume, increases, so the utility or benefit derived from the last portion used decreases in degree. The decrease in enjoyment between the beginning and the end of a meal may be taken as an example.”

William Stanley Jevons

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The more of a good you consume, the less additional satisfaction each extra unit provides, illustrating diminishing marginal utility.

In simple terms: Extra units give less satisfaction.

Key Takeaway

Recognize limits of consumption.

Themes

economics utility consumption decisionmaking

Mood

analytical reflective

Type

economic educational

When to use this quote

  • budgeting
  • food portions
  • resource allocation
  • marketing strategies

Key Concepts

diminishing marginal utility law of diminishing returns

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this principle affect your spending habits?
  • When does a need become a want?
A Different Perspective

Assumes rational behavior and constant preferences.

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