In a command economy, the government owns or controls major industries and makes all production decisions. It sets quotas and production targets for each factory, mine or farm, and determines prices that are not based on supply and demand. The government also eliminates private ownership of property and businesses. The goal is to provide the citizens with enough food, housing and other basic needs. This type of economy also includes rapid mobilization for emergencies like war.
A major problem with command economies is that they often ignore consumer preferences and needs. This can lead to a lack of innovation and a lack of economic growth. In addition, the centralized control of businesses removes the incentive for managers to be efficient and productive. Moreover, a lack of competition reduces consumer choice and may result in poor quality or persistent shortages.
Despite these problems, some socialists argue that a command economy is the only way to achieve true socialism because it maximizes social welfare and eliminates exploitation by profit-seeking capitalists. However, most socialists would like to see a mixed economy that combines sizable helpings of workplace democracy (as in the Mondragon or La Lega cooperatives in Spain and Italy), social control over investment, and various other measures to economically empower local communities and individuals.
Some countries with a command economy have made progress in alleviating poverty, increasing literacy rates and providing access to healthcare. However, critics of these governments point out that they also limit political freedoms and human rights.