The problem is that you don't view society as a social compact and wish for a free-for-all economy.
Incorrect. I am not an anarcho-capitalist. I believe in certain government regulations but only in a minimal fashion.
The only outcome for that is a wealthy merchant class and a poor servant class.
There are only two ways a wealthy merchant class can maintain their position in the market.
1. They are doing a good job.
-If someone stays in business and turns a profit it's because consumers prefer to transact with them. They have an efficient business model that provides consumers with a product or service at a price they find reasonable. Not only that, but they contribute positively to the economy by providing jobs and facilitating capital creation. This helps raise the standard of living for everyone who is willing to work hard. If the business deviates from their model a more efficient business model will supplant it.
2. Government favoritism.
-Inefficient business models are able to survive creative destruction via government regulation and intervention. They lobby the government for favors who subsequently intervenes and regulates on their behalf. This accomplishes three things:
a. It props up inefficient business models with tax payer money.
b. It stymies competition and hinders more efficient business models from entering the market.
c. Both.
The first example (doing a good job absent government favoritism) is a true free-market. The second example (government favoritism) is basically what we have now and what you are seeking to legitimize. The government does not intervene on your behalf, Slippy. They could care less about you. They are intervening on behalf of big business and special interests. Get the government out of the economy and allow creative destruction to work its magic.
Eventually, there is revolt because society needs socialism because we are social animals with empathy. Those without empathy only care about themselves.
I believe in individual compassion, not government mandated compassion. I will not forfeit my moral obligation to others by pawning it off on the government.
What's your tax bracket right now?
I'm poor. I go to school.
Would you freely give up the same amount to private charity and private businesses to get the same level of services?
It depends on what my needs were at the time. If I were financially secure I wouldn't hesitate to donate my money and time to worthy causes, but one could not expect me to forfeit my income if I truly needed it, oh wait, the government already does that.
As for forfeiting services I would only forfeit services that I derive no conceivable benefit from. I'm willing to pay taxes for national defense, roads, police, fire departments, and basic infrastructural necessities. What I'm not willing to pay for is someone's mortgage, healthcare, or welfare.
