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>if they're rational (an assumption that is debatable, of course)

Feels like crime is an almost perfect simulation of the free market: almost/ all of the non-rational actors will be crowded out by evolutionary pressure to be better at finding the highest expected values, where EV would be something like [difficulty to break in] x [best-guess value of access].

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This is a total tangent. However note that the creator of the ‘free market’ idea, Adam Smith, wasn’t an advocate for zero law/regulation regulation.

In fact Chapter 10 of his “Wealth of Nations,” specifically states, “When the regulation, therefore, is in favour of the work-men, it is always just and equitable.” He goes on to explain that regulation that benefits the masters can wind up being unjust.

Smith’s concept of ‘laissez-faire’ was novel back in the day. But by today’s standards, some of his economic opinions might even be considered “collectivist.”

Oh for sure and a good point. I meant the free market in the sense certain groups tout as the solution to all problems but that the studiously avoid themselves because it’s dog-eat-dog.

I hate getting old because I can never remember this when it's relevant.

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