What is the main subject of macroeconomics?

• A. The study of individual markets
• B. The study of the economy as a whole
• C. The analysis of firm behavior
• D. The examination of household consumption

Answer: (B)

The main subject of macroeconomics focuses on the economy as a whole, analyzing broad aggregates and overarching economic phenomena. This includes understanding total national output (GDP), unemployment rates, inflation, and how different sectors of the economy interact with one another. By examining these large-scale economic factors, macroeconomics seeks to understand how policies and global events can influence economic performance and growth on a national and international scale.

In contrast, the other choices pertain to microeconomics which looks at individual markets, firm behaviors, and household consumption patterns. These aspects are vital for understanding the smaller components of the economy but do not encapsulate the broader dynamics that macroeconomics addresses. Thus, the correct answer highlights the focus of macroeconomics as the comprehensive study of the economy as a whole, distinguishing it from the more granular inquiries of microeconomic studies.