Command economy vs market economy

A command economy is a system in which economic decisions are determined by a centralized government authority. This system is used to maintain a certain level of economic stability, and the government controls all aspects of production, distribution, and prices.

In contrast, a market economy is an economic system in which the decisions made by consumers and producers, as well as the laws of supply and demand, determine the prices and production of goods and services. In a market economy, private ownership of the means of production and competition among firms through the pricing mechanism are the primary influences on decision-making.

Example of command economy vs market economy

Command Economy:

• In a command economy, the government has complete control over the production, distribution, and pricing of goods and services. For example, in the former Soviet Union, the government determined what goods and services would be produced, how much would be produced, what prices would be charged, and who could purchase the products.
• In a command economy, the government also controls the wages of workers and sets prices for goods and services. This means there is little or no competition among firms, and prices are not determined by supply and demand.

Market Economy:

• In a market economy, the decisions made by consumers and producers, as well as the laws of supply and demand, determine the prices and production of goods and services. For example, if the demand for a certain product increases, the price of the product will also increase.
• In a market economy, private ownership of the means of production and competition among firms through the pricing mechanism are the primary influences on decision-making. This means that prices are determined by the interaction between supply and demand and that firms must compete to attract customers by offering lower prices or better quality products.

Types of command economy vs market economy

A command economy and a market economy are two distinct economic systems that are based on different decision-making processes. In a command economy, the government makes all economic decisions, while in a market economy, consumers and producers make decisions based on the laws of supply and demand. Below are some of the key differences between the two systems:

• In a command economy, the government controls production, distribution, and prices, while in a market economy, consumers and producers make decisions based on the laws of supply and demand.
• In a command economy, economic decisions are made by a centralized government authority, while in a market economy, individuals and firms make decisions independently.
• In a command economy, resources are allocated according to the government’s wishes, while in a market economy, resources are allocated by the pricing mechanism.
• In a command economy, the government sets prices for goods and services, while in a market economy, prices are determined by supply and demand.
• In a command economy, the government owns and controls the means of production, while in a market economy, the means of production are owned and controlled by private firms and individuals.

Advantages of command economy vs market economy

A command economy offers several advantages compared to a market economy. These include:

• Greater economic stability and planning capabilities as the government is able to set long-term economic goals and policies, with the ability to quickly adjust them if needed.
• More equitable distribution of wealth, as the government has the ability to set prices and wages to ensure everyone has access to basic necessities.
• More efficient allocation of resources, as the government can focus resources on areas of the economy which are deemed to be important for the nation’s development.
• Increased opportunities for public investment in infrastructure and public services, which may not be possible in a market economy.
• Possibility of achieving social objectives such as providing employment to all citizens and providing basic services to the most vulnerable.

Limitations of command economy vs market economy

A command economy and a market economy both have their advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the limitations of a command economy compared to a market economy:

• In a command economy, the government determines production, distribution, and prices, which can limit the ability of the market to respond to shifts in demand. This can lead to shortages or surpluses of certain goods and services.
• The government also determines wages in a command economy, which can be too low to provide an adequate standard of living for workers.
• In a command economy, decision-making is centralized, which can lead to inefficient use of resources and a lack of competition.
• The government can also use a command economy to limit the freedoms of citizens, such as the right to own private property or the right to start a business.

In contrast, a market economy is based on the laws of supply and demand and allows for more competition and consumer choice. This means that prices are determined by the market and can respond to shifts in demand more quickly, leading to more efficient use of resources. It also allows for more economic freedom, as citizens have the right to own private property and start businesses.

Other approaches related to command economy vs market economy

There are several other economic systems and approaches related to the command economy vs market economy.

• Mixed economy: Mixed economies blend elements of both command and market economies. In a mixed economy, the government retains some level of influence and control over the economy while allowing the market to shape the majority of economic decisions.
• Planned economy: A planned economy is an economic system in which the government plans and controls the production of goods and services. In a planned economy, the government determines the production, distribution and prices of goods and services based on its goals.
• Free-market economy: A free-market economy is an economic system in which individuals and businesses are free to make economic decisions without government interference. In a free-market economy, prices are determined by the forces of supply and demand and there is little or no government control or regulation.
• Libertarianism: Libertarianism is a political philosophy that advocates for individual freedom, free markets and limited government intervention. In this system, individuals are free to make their own economic decisions and the market is allowed to operate without interference from the government.

In summary, there are several approaches related to the command economy vs market economy, such as mixed economies, planned economies, free-market economies, and libertarianism. These approaches have different levels of government control and influence over economic decisions and the operation of the market.

Command economy vs market economy — recommended articles

Free market system — Centrally planned economy — Currency Convertibility — Law of supply and demand — Market system — Competitive equilibrium — Laissez faire government — Quasi public goods — Competition

References

• Lin, J. Y. (2004). Lessons of China's transition from a planned economy to a market economy (pp. 1-45). Warszawa: Leon Koźmiński Academy of Entrepreneurship and Management.