Originally Posted by Dien Rice

Thanks Richard - I always enjoy reading your writings...

I agree government is inefficient and maybe it being run more like a business could make it more efficient. I ain't no expert in that.

There are probably cases to be made both ways. I think it might not be that simple too.

My late father was an economist, and one thing he talked to us about (when he got into "economics mode") was something called "natural monopolies."

Some services are best run as a monopoly. For example take the water supply. Let's say it is run like any business with competitors. It would mean that any business could run water pipes to your house. You could have 10 different companies running different water pipes to your house. This would not be efficient at all. That's why the water supply is called a "natural monopoly."

Now say that it is run as a private business with no restrictions. What's to stop the water company from charging you an exorbitant rate for your water? Because it's a "natural monopoly," if there were no government controls - you'd probably be paying exorbitant rates for your water. That's one example where running a government can be different from your "usual" business.

Just thought I'd throw that in there... I always enjoy your posts.

Best wishes,

Dien