ECONOMICS (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -A public good has two key characteristics: it is nonexcludable and nonrivalrous. These characteristics make it difficult for market producers to sell the good to individual consumers. Nonexcludable means that it is costly or impossible for one user to exclude others from using a good.

Detailed explanation-2: -The two main criteria that distinguish a public good are that it must be non-rivalrous and non-excludable. Non-rivalrous means that the goods do not dwindle in supply as more people consume them; non-excludability means that the good is available to all citizens.

Detailed explanation-3: -Non-rivalry means that consumption of a good by one person does not reduce the amount available for others. Non-rivalry is one of the key characteristics of a pure public good.

Detailed explanation-4: -Other examples of non-rival goods include a beautiful scenic view, national defense, clean air, street lights, and public safety. More generally, most intellectual property is non-rival. In fact, certain types of intellectual property become more valuable as more people consume them (anti-rival).

Detailed explanation-5: -A good is considered non-rivalrous or non-rival if, for any level of production, the cost of providing it to a marginal (additional) individual is zero. A good is “anti-rivalrous” and “inclusive” if each person benefits more when other people consume it.