> Well, I gave some examples, like providing a basic safety net, and policing.
Policing isn't provided by the market because there isn't a market for it, and this is not a shortcoming of the markets either - it's human preference. Policing an imposed "service" that free people would not solicit.
If we take an empirical analysis of what provides safety in our life's I would argue that mitigating the risk of harm is provided almost exclusively through voluntary means, such as markets, friends and family.
Security cameras, seat-belts/airbags, cell phones, firearms, door locks, fences, pepper spray and tazers all provide FAR more cost-effective security than a policeman driving around making a quick buck on speeding tickets.
These technologies are sufficient for most people, but you can always buy more security, which malls frequently do. Police don't keep us safe and prevent theft, which is why malls have to buy mall security.
Policing isn't provided by the market because there isn't a market for it, and this is not a shortcoming of the markets either - it's human preference. Policing an imposed "service" that free people would not solicit.
If we take an empirical analysis of what provides safety in our life's I would argue that mitigating the risk of harm is provided almost exclusively through voluntary means, such as markets, friends and family.
Security cameras, seat-belts/airbags, cell phones, firearms, door locks, fences, pepper spray and tazers all provide FAR more cost-effective security than a policeman driving around making a quick buck on speeding tickets.
These technologies are sufficient for most people, but you can always buy more security, which malls frequently do. Police don't keep us safe and prevent theft, which is why malls have to buy mall security.