My analysis of this phenomenon, ably brought to our attention by eclectic Lefty Keith Ruffles in a comment on my latest BBRU, is over at Business and Politics:

But where does ‘real influence’ come from?

Only from the systemic discipline which comes from people having the chance to vote both with their feet (ie to leave an oppressive system if they want) and with their property (ie to stop the collective from stealing or ruining the fruits of their efforts).

In a word, from ownership:

I created those things, with my brain and hard work. You have no right to take or control them, just as you have no right to take or control my mind.

I will be happy to share my production with you, but only on the basis of free trade between free people.

If you fail to deliver your side of the bargain, off I go – taking my fair share of my production with me.

Horrible.

Just horrible.