In economics, a change in demand is influenced by several factors, but one of the options provided is NOT a factor that leads to a change in demand. This factor is the price of the good or service.
Here’s why:
The Price of the Good or Service: When we talk about demand, we focus on a demand curve that represents the relationship between the price of a good and the quantity demanded. A change in the price of the good itself does not shift the demand curve; instead, it results in a movement along the demand curve. Therefore, changes in the price of the good or service itself do not cause a change in demand but rather a change in the quantity demanded.
In contrast, the following factors do cause shifts in the demand curve (change in demand):
A Change in Real Income: When consumers have more or less income, their ability to purchase goods and services changes. If real income increases, consumers can afford to buy more, shifting the demand curve to the right. Conversely, a decrease in real income shifts the demand curve to the left.
Government Policy: Policies such as taxes, subsidies, regulations, or import restrictions can impact consumer purchasing power or the attractiveness of a product, influencing demand. For example, a subsidy on solar panels might increase their demand as they become more affordable.
Increase in Population: An increase in population typically increases demand for various goods and services as more people in the economy need these products, causing a rightward shift in the demand curve.