I believed you did an excellent job of discussing the concept of the market and the economy and how people perceive them. Your essay was very informative and you understood the material provided to us very well. I identified what you agreed with and did not agree with. You seemed to agree with Bylund’s definition of the market as an unbridled, unhampered, unregulated, and unmanipulated economy. With this, I see both sides to Bylund’s statement. An 'unhampered' market, in my opinion, would provide individuals and firms more freedom, flexibility, and opportunity to pursue their ambitions and build wealth. But, I understand how an ‘unregulated’ market may cause economic insecurity, inequality, and other undesirable consequences.
In another part of your essay, you respond to Bylund's argument…
” Bylund argues that humans are naturally good and that their instinct is to coexist peacefully with those around them (Bylund, pp. 3).”
You then proceed to claim
” I believe that humans are naturally flawed, self-centered, and evil. I think that we as humans have to learn selflessness, kindness, generosity, and goodness as we grow up.”
However, I must disagree with the statement that people are inherently flawed, self-centered, and evil. While it is true that people can engage in unpleasant activity, I do not believe that this is our inherent nature. Instead, I believe that humans are capable of both positive and negative behavior and that our behaviors are influenced by a complex interaction of elements that are unique to each individual.
You also agreed with Bylund’s definition of economics and the importance of observing and understanding the natural ebbs and flows of the economy, and I would have to agree that economics is characterized by human activity and interaction. You then continued stressing this by monitoring and understanding the natural ebbs and flows of the economy and how it is vital to be productive and a helpful part of the economy.
Overall, your article provides a detailed and analytical examination of the market concept and its various interpretations. Your essay expertly blends together a number of viewpoints and theories, showing their respective strengths and limitations. Bylund's description of the market as an unbridled, unhampered, unregulated, and unmanipulated economy is well-explained and supported with relevant examples. Furthermore, I thought you did an outstanding job of responding to counterarguments and providing a balanced viewpoint on the role of government in the market. Overall, this essay is a well-researched and thought-provoking addition to the current discussion regarding the nature and function of markets.