“The only way that has ever been discovered to have a lot of people cooperate together voluntarily is through the free market. And that's why it's so essential to preserving individual freedom.”
— Milton Friedman
Simplified Meaning:
When people work together willingly, it usually happens because they see benefits for themselves. The free market, where businesses and individuals trade goods and services, naturally motivates people to join forces because each person can get something they want in return. This system allows everyone to make their own choices and find the best deals for their needs. It doesn't force anyone to do anything; instead, it encourages voluntary cooperation. For example, if you want to buy a new phone, you can compare different brands and prices before deciding which one to buy. In this way, the free market protects your ability to choose, leading to greater freedom for everyone. This concept is important because when people are free to make their own decisions, they feel more satisfied and are often happier in their choices.