Amerikanse, we're in basic agreement about the virtue of the free market.
However, I simply can't agree that
"the free market system stems from "looking out for number one,"
as you aver.
The free market system is premised on the right to private property. In other words, its origin lies on the recognition of clear moral principles: title, justice and free exchange. I cannot possibly defend a system based on human weakness, or immoral impulses, or vices or defects in the human character. Capitalism is far, far more than that. It is nobler by far than any other system, because it derives from the highest and noblest conceptions of the human person and his dignity, rights, freedoms, and responsibiltiies.
Of course one can concede that perhaps one of the reasons why Capitalism works so well is because it allows individuals to make their own choices for their own motives, and it is true that the "look out for number one" impulse is powerful. But it's hardly the
source of capitalism's virtue or efficacy. Even of we grant that many are so moved, my personal experience is that this gross greed (selfishness & avarice) is very rare, especially in very wealthy people. Greed, selfishness and other baser motives are not what move most wealthy people I know. I see these impulses more explicitly manifested in the lesser-haves closer to the bottom rung. Most people in my experience, once past the early-20s, settle down to a pretty selfless life of service for others, supporting and maintaining families, paying bonds, education, transport, etc, etc for their families and often for non-family. Most of their income for most of their lives is actually spent serving the needs of more than their own "number one" selfish selves. That is as it should be. And it would be even better if the State didn't confiscate half their income.
If my means allow, I'm quite prepared to assist in supporting others - but not their self-destructive habits, vices, and crimes. I am prepared to contribute to the education of others - but not in State Schools (free and compulsory, just like prisons!) with politicised curricula that
miseducate and indoctrinate rather than educate. The vileness that is State education is destroying Western society at the roots. I want no part of it, yet I am forced to pay because 'the majority' has a blank cheque on my life and my property. By what right, I ask? My loathing of collectivism is exceeded only by my yearning for liberty. My agony is for my children, who are born captives to the State.
