| I often write about how most Americans misperceive capitalism. They believe it's all about selfishness, greed and exploitation. Yet that characterization doesn't stand up to even a moment's scrutiny. Yes, we're all self-interested. But as a businessman or entrepreneur, you don't get rich by thinking about yourself. You must consider other people's wants and needs and ask yourself: How can I provide them with what they want better, faster or cheaper? Even if you're the greediest person in the world, no one is going to give you a dime until you provide them with a product or service of value. That's because the system is based on voluntary transactions. That's why you always hear two "thank-you's" at checkout. You say thanks because you want the merchandise more than the money. The retailers say thanks because they want the money more than the merchandise. Capitalism promises that you can have anything you want if you just provide enough other people with what they want. If you don't want to work for a company, sell to a company, buy from a company or own its shares, you don't have to. And if you have been and you're not satisfied, you are always free to make a change. Where is the exploitation in that? Anti-capitalists insist that businesses charge as much as they can and do as little as they can for their customers, suppliers and employees. But good ones certainly don't. Businesses focused solely on short-term profits don't last long. If you cut corners on quality, your customers will leave you. If you bargain with your suppliers too hard, they won't trade with you. If you undervalue your employees, they will take their talents elsewhere. It is in the best interests of business owners to make sure that all stakeholders - employees, suppliers, customers and communities - are satisfied. Now, here's a news flash... Businesses are run by fallible human beings. Sometimes they make mistakes, breach contracts, use poor judgment, harm individuals or damage the environment. When they do, the transgressors should be punished. But that doesn't make capitalism wrong any more than democracy is wrong whenever some politician screws up. Most wealthy Americans achieved their affluence not by inheritance or real estate speculation but by owning profitable businesses. Of course, most of us don't have the time, the money, or the experience necessary to start and run our own business. Yet we can still own a piece of one - or a whole portfolio of businesses - through the quintessence of capitalism: the stock market. With even a modest amount of money, any individual can accumulate a stake in many of the world's great businesses. And it's easy. A click of the mouse and you're in. Another click, and you're out. (Compare that to your typical real estate closing.) | 
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