Text 9. The basis of the US economy

The American economy is described as a free enterprise system, which allows private business the freedom to operate for profit with minimum government regulation. The theoretical foundation of the American economic system was provided by Adam Smith whose economic ideas of free competition influenced the development of capitalism. From his standpoint the more people manufacture and trade the greater the competition. Competition benefits society by allowing the consumer to search for the best available product at the lowest price. Thus market forces, which Smith termed the invisible hands, control the allocation of goods while each participant in the market is seeking for his own self-interest.

Throughout the nineteen century, market operated with a minimum government regulations. Since the 1930-s American capitalism has undergone a radical change. Although private enterprises flourishes, government regulation now exists in many areas of business ranging from product safety to labor conditions. Political conservatives complain of too much government regulation while the liberals are out for the enhance of government role in business and economy.

The country's reliance on private initiative and enterprise has produced impressive growth. The USA today is a leading economic power with a high standard of living and enormous productivity in industry and agriculture.

The USA remains the world's leading producer of goods and services, although its margin of superiority is diminishing as other countries become more competitive in the world's market.

Industrial and technological position of the states is very high. The USA is the leading producer of electrical energy, aluminum, copper, paper, and one of the top producers of natural gas and automobiles. No other nation exports as much high technology as the USA.

1. Who provided the theoretical foundation of the American economic system?

2. Why does the USA remain the world's leading producer of goods and services?

3. What types of goods does the nation produce?

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