Note, however, the reverse inequality of values between the value scales, among the four items indicated in blue. This reverse inequality is similar to the one encountered on p. 4.5:20 and creates another mutually beneficial trading opportunity.

Crusoe

9 dozen eggs now

9 dozen eggs a year from now

8 dozen eggs now

8 dozen eggs a year from now
stock:
8 dozen eggs

Friday

9 dozen eggs now

8 dozen eggs now

9 dozen eggs a year from now

8 dozen eggs a year from now
stock:
0 eggs,
many chickens

If Crusoe lends his 8 dozen eggs to Friday in exchange for the promised repayment of 9 dozen eggs a year from now, then each party benefits on his value scale. (In the free market, Crusoe knows that Friday will abide by his agreements and repay his debt.)

^Previous