Features of a Capitalist Economy
- Right to Private Property: This is the essence of capitalism. This right means that private property such as property, factories, machines, plants etc. can be owned under private individuals and companies. The three things covered under this right are:
Every individual can acquire any amount of property, He can use these properties as he wishes, He also has the right of inheritance. So he can inherit the property from his forefathers. And he can also pass it on to his successors on his death.
- Price Mechanism: Price mechanism is like an invisible hand that controls the workings of a capitalist economy. The forces of supply and demand will determine the prices and the level of productions in the economy. The government will not have any interference in this matter.
- Profit Motive: The driving force behind any capitalist economy is the profit motive. All companies wish to produce and sell their products to maximize their profits. This also induces healthy competition in the economy.
- Freedom of Enterprise: In capitalism, every individual is free to make his own economic choices without any intervention. This includes both the consumer and the producers.
So a producer is free to produce any goods or services. And the consumer is free to buy whatever he desires and from whomever, he wants without restrictions.