Every economic system would like to reach six basic goals. However, to achieve all six together is not possible. Some of the goals are in opposition to each other. Below is a list of the goals and the three which are most important to each economic system.

Economic Growth: Create jobs, reduce poverty

Economic Efficiency: Maximize output by careful use of resources

Economic Stability: Prevent rapid price increases and decreases

Economic Security: Provide steady, suitable, and secure jobs for all

Economic Equity: Provide fair distribution of resources

Economic Freedom: Allow individual decisions on production, spending, and jobs