Even if everyone has their own replicator, the competition shifts to who controls raw materials, and who controls energy.
Fresh water, for example, is a scarce (and becoming scarcer) resource, and it's impossible to farm or live without it.
Fresh water, for example, is a scarce (and becoming scarcer) resource, and it's impossible to farm or live without it.
Agree with the comment about ownership. As technology has improved, more and more power has been going to whoever owns the capital.
The problem is that energy is expensive, and fresh water shortages will be worst in countries that are poor and can't afford these plants.