"Microeconomics is exciting and relevant. A text- book for microeconomics should convey this ex- citement and this relevance. I have attempted in every way possible to do just that, while preserv- ing completeness and thoroughness in the pre- sentation of intermediate price theory.
Some have argued, and I concur, that micro- economics is the basis of virtually all economic analysis. It seems, therefore, especially impera- tive that students embarking upon a career in economics and/or business be conversant not only with the foundations of microeconomic theory, but also with its application in the real world. At the end of each chapter, I have included a special Issues and Applications section which illustrates theory as a vehicle to clarify social issues and solve social problems. This serves two purposes: It reinforces the student's understand- ing of the theory and it demonstrates the theory's relevance. These special sections are inserted in such a way as to maintain the continuity of the text. Instructors can use them in a variety of ways or delete all or parts of them when desired."