Really good post and the fact it came off the back of socialist discussion really serves to illustrate the provenance of the argument, with no idealist society yet having achieved nirvana.

The economics of this post relay human nature and instinct. Price is elastic, but even "bungie" cords snap when stretched too far. The scales of temperance and acceptance are also related to opportunity. I worked for a Finnish company for 17 years and yes they like to drink and it was never cheap. Take the party boat to Estonia and have great weekend and bring back the goods.

If however the borders and govt control stop this, the frustrations grow and the checks and balances of a decent society fade. (Finland seems to have most things correct). The internet has helped to clarify other countries commercial and social impositions and starts to remove centralization of transactions and tax opportunities. Quite topical on this site!