Final answer:
Self-interested behavior that benefits each individual can align with the concept of public goods and the invisible hand as proposed by Adam Smith, indicating a net benefit for society.
Step-by-step explanation:
A behavior where each individual gets a net benefit can be explained by self-interested behavior that aligns with public goods and the concept of the invisible hand. In economics, rational behavior is assumed to be the driving force where individuals act to maximize their own utility or satisfaction.
When consumers seek the best deals and workers strive to earn a living, they inadvertently contribute to economic output and social welfare. This can lead to the creation of public goods, which are resources that benefit everyone as these goods cannot be withheld from anyone and do not dwindle as more individuals use them.
Adam Smith's idea of the invisible hand explains how self-interested behavior in a market economy can lead to positive outcomes for society as a whole.
While some behaviors may seem irrational, behavioral economists acknowledge that there might be deeper underlying reasons for such behavior, indicating that what appears irrational on the surface might actually be quite rational in terms of seeking personal satisfaction and utility.