What characterizes an oligopoly in a free enterprise system?

• A. A market controlled by a single firm
• B. A market structure dominated by a few firms
• C. A competitive market with many firms
• D. A system with government-controlled pricing

Answer: (B)

In a free enterprise system, an oligopoly is characterized by a market structure that is dominated by a few large firms. This condition allows these firms to have significant control over their pricing and supply. The actions of one firm can directly influence the behavior of the others, leading to outcomes where firms may collaborate in some informal manner, resulting in limited competition.

In contrast, a market controlled by a single firm represents a monopoly, not an oligopoly. A competitive market with many firms is indicative of perfect competition, where no single entity has significant market power. Lastly, a system with government-controlled pricing refers to regulatory intervention in markets, which does not align with the principles of an oligopoly where firms operate independently yet interdependently in terms of market strategies. Thus, the defining characteristic of an oligopoly is indeed the presence of a few dominant firms shaping the market landscape.