Final answer:
b.working at a job they found meaningful
The survey indicates that half of U.S. adults would accept a 10% pay cut for working at a meaningful job, showing the importance they place on job satisfaction relative to income. This reflects the intricate balance between work, income, and personal fulfillment that varies among individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The survey question asks about what trade-off U.S. adults would be willing to make with their income. It suggests that about half of U.S. adults would be willing to accept a 10% pay cut if it meant working at a job they found meaningful. This finding highlights how individuals value not only their income but also the quality and significance of their work. The willingness to trade money for meaningfulness speaks to broader economic concepts such as the leisure-income budget set, which indicates that people respond differently to changes in income or wages. While some might choose to work more when wages increase, others prefer to keep the same hours or even reduce their work hours. The issue is complex, as financial decisions are affected by various factors, including existing income levels, job satisfaction, and personal preferences for leisure versus work.