first best

In economic theory, 'first best' refers to an ideal situation where all optimality conditions are met without any constraints.

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Definition

C1Economic Theory

(technical, academic)A scenario where the optimal outcome is achieved without any constraints or limitations.

Example

  • In a first-best world, resources are allocated in the most efficient way possible.
  • Economists often compare real-world situations to the first-best scenario to identify inefficiencies.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "first best":

second bestfirst choicecome firstthird bestnumber onefirst thingbest ofdouble firsttop prioritynumero unotop tierin the first placefirst fiddlefirst and last