What do we talk about when we talk about Opportunity Cost?

Abstract

As its title expresses, the work aims to reflect on some controversial aspects regarding the concept of «opportunity cost» applied in the management of organizations. Initially acase is presented, intentionally simple in order not to distract the attention of the central point. Through itsresolution are exposedthe most widespread applications, which are also frequently used in companies regarding the subject. To elucidate which of the divergent possible responses iscorrect, the genesis of the concept of opportunity cost is explored in the history of economic thought, emerging very significant precedents, which are little mentioned by the doctrine, in general. Then, with essential adaptations, the initial case is solvedby using the concepts of the «Theory of imputation» developed by some authors of the «marginalism» and perfected by Friedrich von Wieser. Finally, using this last solution as a reference,itis realized a compared analysis of the divergent variants of application of the concept of opportunity cost used in management.