Where, however, inputs are combinations of specific factors it will be impossible to determine the value of their individual contributions. A canal is a graphic example of this. Locks are vital to most canals and yet it is impossible to separate the value of the contribution of the lock from the rest of the canal. To all intents and purposes they are one factor and quite rightly treated as such. Fist's constant and sneering use of the term rationalist for market economist only serves to remind informed readers of his wilful ignorance.
Free markets are anathema to genuine rationalists.
Markets are spontaneous coordinating processes, meaning that they are not the product of conscious design. To rationalists, then, order is always the product of conscious design, of deliberation, of some well thought out plan. This is why it is socialists who are the real rationalists, not market economists. Fist clearly lacks the knowledge and imagination to realise that 'rationalist economics' is really socialist economics. Quite frankly, Fist's anti-economic rantings have done nothing for the reputation of The Australian.