The philosopher Robert Nozick made a strong and challenging argument for a minimalist state in his book Anarchy, State, and Utopia. He concluded that no state should provide any services beyond law enforcement. This would essentially result in all highways, schools, social security, and other services outside of police and homeland security becoming privatized.
1.) Is it reasonable from an economist's viewpoint to minimize the role of the government in accordance with Nozick's moral argument?
2.)Do you believe that there should be any exceptions to this argument? In your answer, consider that one of the mechanisms through which the U.S. Government controls monopolies and oligopolies is through the use of antitrust laws. These laws are designed to protect competition and thus increase the welfare of society as a whole. Discuss the various ways in which monopolies and oligopolies can curtail and/or eliminate competition and, alternatively, the circumstances when this may not be the case.
Explain in 650 word page and justify your conclusions.