How government screws up markets and makes things more expensive than they should be – In one simple graph

Where government gets involved prices almost always increase. Why? Because government introduces red tape, and rent seeking, and cronies, insulates incumbent players from competition, and creates pointless hoops through which one must jump. (Often created for the established firms to keep competitors out.) Where markets and prices are free however the tendency is for prices to decrease. (Even as our central bank tries to increase prices overall.) In virtually every market where government inserts itself there is increased waste, cronyism, and price inflation above what should be. Pretty much without exception.

The market has done more to raise the standard of living for the poor and the middle class than government EVER will. Or could.