Final answer:
If total utility increases with consumption of a good, the marginal utility from each additional unit does not necessarily increase; instead, it generally decreases according to the law of diminishing marginal utility. Each successive unit consumed contributes less to total utility than the previous unit, as illustrated by José's experience with T-shirts, following the broader law of diminishing returns.
Step-by-step explanation:
If total utility increases as consumption of a good increases, it does not necessarily mean that the marginal utility from each successive unit of the good consumed will also increase. In fact, the law of diminishing marginal utility suggests that although total utility may increase as more of a good is consumed, the additional satisfaction or utility obtained from consuming each additional unit, that is, the marginal utility, typically decreases.
For example, consider José's situation with the T-shirts. The first T-shirt gives him high utility, adding 22 units to his satisfaction, because it is his favorite. However, the fourth T-shirt gives him only an additional 18 units because it is less preferred and merely serves as an extra piece to wear when needed. This illustrates diminishing marginal utility, which is the common pattern where each additional unit of a good consumed provides less additional utility than the preceding unit.
This concept is consistent with the law of diminishing returns, which refers to a point where the level of benefits gained is less than the amount of money or energy invested.