Problems With The Analogy of the Household Budget Most households do NOT: a. Have the ability to unilaterally increase their income or unilaterally set some of the rules of the economic game. b. Have the moral obligation to pursue the public good and look after those who cannot look after themselves. Define their situation as having to help outside third parties make a profit. Experience cyclical fluctuations. Politicize their budgeting to placate third parties who control their very existence in the future. Shy away from taking on debt.