what is a mixed economy 
most modern nations considered to be market economies are strictly speaking mixed economies that is the law of supply and demand is the main driver of the economy the interactions between consumers and producers are allowed to determine what goods and services are offered and what prices are charged for them that is the law of supply and demand rules however most nations also see the value of a central authority that steps in to prevent malpractice correct injustices or provide necessary but unprofitable services without government intervention there can be no worker safety rules consumer protection laws emergency relief measures subsidized medical care or public transportation systems 