The economy of the United States, well as that of most developed , operates according to the principles of free market. This differs from the of socialist or Communist countries, where play a strong role in deciding goods and services will be produced, they will be distributed, and how they will cost (see Socialism; Communism). in free-market economies benefit from certain rights or freedoms. All people in societies have the right to own, , buy, sell, or give away property, permitting them to own and operate own businesses as private, profit-seeking enterprises. owners in free markets may choose run their businesses however they like, the limits of other, mostly non-business-oriented . This right gives businesses the authority hire and fire employees, invest money, machinery and equipment, and choose the where they want to operate. In so, however, they may not violate infringe on the rights of other and people. Free-market businesses also have right to keep or reinvest their .