Free To Choose: A Personal Statement By Milton And Rose Friedman

The book, Free to Choose: A Personal Statement by Milton and Rose Friedman is one which embodies, not only the personal views of one of history’s most influential economic authorities, but also provides a practical guide for understanding economics, as a whole. In the work, Friedman and his wife advocate laissez faire or “let do” economics, which advocates the idea that markets function most efficiently when free from government control and taxation. The book was also made into a popular television mini-series for PBS in 1980, each of the ten chapters being covered by an individual episode. Throughout the work, the Friedmans cite examples throughout history and the world to support the assertion that free markets promote economic progress and that attempts to control markets inhibit it. Chapter one introduces the reader to the idea of free trade. Dr. Friedman cites examples from his experience in Hong Kong, the United States, and Scotland to support this view. He claims that in order for markets to truly be considered free, they must be completely devoid of government
Most people would contend that the answer to this question is overwhelmingly “yes”. The Federal government has been chosen to provide this protection. Dr. Friedman disputes these common notions that consumers need protection from the government or that these actions on behalf of the government actually cause persons to be better off. Again, he argues that consumer’s problems are actually caused by the government’s interference and that the best protection for a consumer is found within a totally free market. This is because of the fact, that when people are offered alternative choices, poor quality goods and services are weeded out, leaving only higher quality ones. The armor this freedom of choice provides is sufficient for consumers and attempts by government to protect consumers actually worsen their