political ideologies and economic systems - Capitalism Flashcards
Private Property
Ownership of assets and resources by individuals and businesses, rather than by the state or collective.
Market Economy
Economic system where goods and services are produced, distributed, and exchanged by individuals and businesses in a competitive market.
Free Enterprise
Economic system characterized by private ownership of businesses and minimal government intervention in economic activities.
Profit Motive
Driving force behind capitalist economies, where individuals and businesses seek to maximize their profits.
Competition
Rivalry among businesses in a market economy, driving efficiency, innovation, and lower prices for consumers.
Supply and Demand
Economic principle that describes the relationship between the availability of a product and the desire for that product among consumers.
Invisible Hand
Concept introduced by Adam Smith, describing how self-interested behavior in a free market leads to positive outcomes for society as a whole.
Laissez-Faire
Economic policy advocating for minimal government interference in the economy, allowing the free market to operate without regulation.
Entrepreneurship
Activity of starting and running a business, often involving risk-taking and innovation.
Economic Freedom
Ability of individuals and businesses to make their own economic choices without interference from the government.
Wealth Accumulation
Process of acquiring assets, resources, and capital in a capitalist economy.
Consumer Sovereignty
Principle that consumer preferences determine the production of goods and services in a market economy.
Division of Labor
Specialization of tasks and roles within a society or economy, increasing efficiency and productivity.
Economic Growth
Increase in the production and consumption of goods and services over time, a key goal of capitalist economies.
Capital Accumulation
Process of acquiring and investing capital to generate wealth and economic growth.