The Dangers of Collectivism Dennis Bechara In a Free Society, scarce and valuable resources are drawn to serve the mandate of consumers. Producers are guided by market prices as consumers cast their economic ballots for the goods and services which they prefer. Entrepreneurs are guided by the profit and loss system, and their ability to please consumers is reflected in the amount of profits earned. The role of government in a free society is a limited one, as most areas of economic activity are left to the market. Of no concern to the government of a free society are the complex economic activities that take place between consenting parties-voluntary actions involving no use of force, violence or coercion.
Individuals are free to act peacefully as they choose.
Therefore, government's proper role is to assure a sound framework in which a free market economy may operate. The defense against internal and external enemies is a necessary function of government, and private property in such a society would be protected as the bedrock of the market economy. In such an environment individuals might freely cooperate in all sorts of peaceful organizations and activities - a truly pluralistic society. No one particular group could claim control of the state, and each group would be free to produce, create and enjoy the benefits of its labor. But when freedom gives way to state-enforced collectivism, pluralistic activities are discouraged.