On a graph showing the relationship between x and y, the ceteris paribus condition implies that
A) no other variables are related to x and y.
B) the value of x is held constant.
C) the value of y is held constant.
D) other variables not shown are held constant.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ceteris paribus condition, often used in economics and other social sciences, means "all other things being equal" or "holding other factors constant." In the context of a graph showing the relationship between x and y, it implies that any other variables that could affect the relationship are held constant, even though they are not displayed on the graph. This allows for the isolation of the effect of x on y (or vice versa), without the interference of external variables.

On a Graph Showing the Relationship Between X and Y