Final answer:
Cable TV is considered a 'want' because it is a recreational expense and not essential for basic living, whereas prescription drugs, mortgage insurance, and car insurance are 'needs' for maintaining health and legal requirements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The expense generally considered to be a "want" as opposed to a "need" is D- Cable. Needs are expenses that are essential for basic living, such as prescription drugs, mortgage insurance, and car insurance.
These cover essential health requirements and legally required insurances that protect a person's finances and health. On the other hand, wants are expenses for non-essential items or services that enhance entertainment and comfort, such as the sports package on cable TV which falls under the category of recreation.
While a car payment, ensuring the latest iPhone model, or cable TV with premium channels do involve financial costs, they can vary greatly depending on personal choices and the level of luxury one opts for.
Recreation costs, such as for cable television, are discretionary and can be adjusted or forgone entirely without impacting a person's ability to navigate daily life safely and legally.