Municipal waterworks are government-run and government-owned, and generally an extension of local governments. But, bizarrely, when something goes wrong, it's somehow the fault of the private marketplace.
A few days ago, it was reported that the the Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers is beginning to self-destruct.
American history is a story of non-stop efforts by governments to intervene in the marketplace through regulations, monopolies, and subsidies. Most surprisingly, these market interventions appear to place a central role in causing economic crises over the years.
When used properly, and when restrained by the prevalence of a relatively laissez-faire ideology, democracy can indeed work as a brake on government power.
The 20th century was the progressive century, marked by the rise of war and socialism as entrenched features of American life. But perhaps the most lasting effects will be felt in the entitlement mindset woven into the American psyche via decades of successful incrementalism.
Why, with interest rates historically low, are businesses not investing in the much predicted boom? Could it be business owners know more than the central bankers?
Jeff Deist recaps his recent talk, "Socialist Left vs. alt-Right: What it Means for Liberty," which generated plenty of comments from libertarians, progressives, and the alt-Right.
Dissatisfaction with the Fed appears to have gone mainstream, and this may increase if the Fed descends into negative interest rate policies. But, as always, a sound understanding of economics is key.
Cesar Chavez wanted immigration controls to hep him prop up union-labor wages.
Bernie Sanders says he wants to reform the Fed, but Bernie's wrongheaded views on Fed policy demonstrate why it's important to oppose the Fed for the right reasons.
