Buying Quote by Milton Friedman
“There is no place for government to prohibit consumers from buying products the effect of which will be to harm themselves”
About This Quote
Source Book: Capitalism and Freedom, 1962
Government should not ban products that consumers choose even if harmful.
In simple terms: No prohibition on self‑harmful purchases.
Respect personal choice despite risks.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy debate
- consumer rights
- health warnings
- market regulation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When should government intervene for safety?
- How to balance freedom and protection?
May ignore externalities.