What is the Difference Between Normal Goods and Inferior Goods?

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The main difference between normal goods and inferior goods lies in the change in their demand in relation to a change in income. Here are the key differences between the two:

  • Normal Goods: These are products and services that see an increase in demand when incomes rise. Examples of normal goods include household appliances, recreation and health products, and quality clothing and footwear. The income effect of normal goods is positive, meaning that as income increases, the demand for these goods also increases.
  • Inferior Goods: These are products and services that see a decrease in demand as incomes rise. Examples of inferior goods include synthetic clothing found in low-cost box retailers, boxed and canned foods, and low-quality health products. The income effect of inferior goods is negative, meaning that as income increases, the demand for these goods decreases.

In summary, the demand for normal goods increases with an increase in income, while the demand for inferior goods decreases with an increase in income.

Comparative Table: Normal Goods vs Inferior Goods

Here is a table comparing the differences between normal goods and inferior goods:

Feature Normal Goods Inferior Goods
Definition Goods whose demand increases with an increase in the consumer's income. Goods whose demand decreases with an increase in the consumer's income.
Income Effect Positive income effect, meaning the demand for the good increases as consumer income increases. Negative income effect, meaning the demand for the good decreases as consumer income increases.
Demand Curve Has a positive slope, indicating that the quantity demanded increases as the price of the good increases. Has a negative slope, indicating that the quantity demanded decreases as the price of the good increases.
Examples Furniture, clothing, automobiles, household appliances, recreation and health products, and quality clothing and footwear. Single door refrigerators, boxed and canned foods found at dollar stores, and low-quality health products.