In getting produced those things which are most likely to satisfy human wants, the freedom of the market possesses two other inherent advantages over the political, that is, the governmental, process. They are made at infrequent intervals. Once made, they often commit spending for months or years, and in amounts which are subject to little change. Much private spending, in contrast, shifts constantly. In the market place we can vote with every dollar on a list of candidates which is long indeed.
Alternatives shift from day to day.
Prices and qualities are kept on the move. New opportunities appear. Consumer reaction to them induces changes with a flexibility rarely possible in government purchasing. Elected officials, the civil service, and the military place the orders. The public served remains somewhat removed from the choices.