Difference Between Cardinal and Ordinal Utility (with Comparison Chart)

October 2022 · 4 minute read

cardinal vs ordinal utilityThe utility is a psychological phenomenon; that implies the satisfying power of a good or service. It differs from person to person, as it depends on a person’s mental attitude. The measurability of utility is always a matter of contention. The two principal theories for the utility are cardinal utility and ordinal utility. Many traditional economists hold the view that utility is measured quantitatively, like length, height, weight, temperature, etc. This concept is known as cardinal utility concept.

On the other hand, ordinal utility concept expresses the utility of a commodity in terms of ‘less than’ or ‘more than’. Take a read of the article to know the important differences between cardinal and ordinal utility.

Content: Cardinal Utility Vs Ordinal Utility

  • Comparison Chart
  • Definition
  • Key Differences
  • Conclusion

    • Comparison Chart

    Basis for ComparisonCardinal UtilityOrdinal Utility
    MeaningCardinal utility is the utility wherein the satisfaction derived by the consumers from the consumption of good or service can be expressed numerically.Ordinal utility states that the satisfaction which a consumer derives from the consumption of good or service cannot be expressed numerical units.
    ApproachQuantitativeQualitative
    RealisticLessMore
    MeasurementUtilsRanks
    AnalysisMarginal Utility AnalysisIndifference Curve Analysis
    Promoted byClassical and Neo-classical EconomistsModern Economists

    Definition of Cardinal Utility

    The notion of Cardinal utility was formulated by Neo-classical economists, who hold that utility is measurable and can be expressed quantitatively or cardinally, i.e. 1, 2, 3, and so on. The traditional economists developed the theory of consumption based on cardinal measurement of utility, for which they coined the term ‘Util‘ expands to Units of utility. It is assumed that one util is equal to one unit of money, and there is the constant utility of money.

    Further, it has been realised with the passage of time that the cardinal measurement of utility is not possible, thus less realistic. There are many difficulties in measuring utility numerically, as the utility derived by the consumer from a good or service depends on a number of factors such as mood, interest, taste, preferences and much more.

    Definition of Ordinal Utility

    Ordinal Utility is propounded by the modern economists, J.R. Hicks, and R.G.D. Allen, which states that it is not possible for consumers to express the satisfaction derived from a commodity in absolute or numerical terms. Modern Economists hold that utility being a psychological phenomenon, cannot be measured quantitatively, theoretically and conceptually. However, a person can introspectively express whether a good or service provides more, less or equal satisfaction when compared to one another.

    In this way, the measurement of utility is ordinal, i.e. qualitative, based on the ranking of preferences for commodities. For example: Suppose a person prefers tea to coffee and coffee to milk. Hence, he or she can tell subjectively, his/her preferences, i.e. tea > coffee > milk.

    Key Differences Between Cardinal and Ordinal Utility

    The following points are noteworthy so far as the difference between cardinal and ordinal utility is concerned:

  • Cardinal utility is the utility wherein the satisfaction derived by the consumers from the consumption of good or service can be measured numerically. Ordinal utility states that the satisfaction which a consumer derives from the consumption of product or service cannot be measured numerically.
  • Cardinal utility measures the utility objectively, whereas there is a subjective measurement of ordinal utility.
  • Cardinal utility is less realistic, as quantitative measurement of utility is not possible. On the other end, the ordinal utility is more realistic as it relies on qualitative measurement.
  • Cardinal utility, is based on marginal utility analysis. As against this, the concept of ordinal utility is based on indifference curve analysis.
  • The cardinal utility is measured in terms of utils, i.e. units of utility. On the contrary, the ordinal utility is measured in terms of ranking of preferences of a commodity when compared to each other.
  • Cardinal utility approach propounded by Alfred Marshall and his followers. Conversely, ordinal utility approach pioneered by Hicks and Allen.

    • Conclusion

    These two above mentioned demand analysis approaches are not in competition with each other, but during the analysis of consumer behaviour, they represent two levels of sophistication. Both cardinal and ordinal utility are vital to assess and analyse consumer demand for a good or service, irrespective of the purpose.

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