The system works only if people are pushing for the best deals. Otherwise, producers fail to innovate or invest, or they squander money and effort on the wrong things. When millions of people are constantly seeking something better, the market disciplines all players. Everyone has to do his or her best in order to satisfy everyone else. All resources are put to their best uses.
People work hard.
Economies surge forward. This has long been the American way. It is now rapidly becoming the world way. America was founded by people who left places and abandoned old ways in search of a better deal. And if they didn't find it where they landed, they kept moving until they did.