Boy has this thread jumped around. I have to agree with John and John (*g*) on this one though on principle--opportunity costs can be positive or zero. A good example of a zero opportunity cost is a free good which is available without the use of resources such as 'air.' Since the opportunity cost principle states the cost of one good in terms of the next best alternative, what is the alternative to 'air?' Of course this only holds true as long as air is plentiful on earth!

:o)
Tracy

>John
>
>Reconsider. SB is correct by definition. Opportunity cost is not something you can calculate from benefits and deficits. The best option may carry a severe opportunity cost.
>
>Regards
>
>JR