Which of the following statements would a follower of Adam Smith be most likely to make? The federal government should use its ability to spend and tax to guide the decisions of businesses and consumers. Market economies are flawed because they put too much emphasis on economic growth and not enough on environmental problems. Overpopulation is the main danger confronting modern economies. If people are given the freedom to follow their own interests, theoretically their efforts will lead to economic growth that benefits society as a whole.