Fred, I agree that there always must be some sort of governance to enforce contracts and property rights. I also agree that it is useful to think of institutions along certain continums. However, there are distinct differences between markets and formal government organizations that could replace them (as opposed to governing organizations that support them). These are real alternatives among which we must choose. We could change our language to make your points more clear, but I think your points are well known (except by obtuse formalists) and widely accepted (except for a few Rothbardians). Do you really think that anyone on this list seriously opposes your thinking in these matters? Doug Mackenzie