[vezzy-fnord]

I never voiced a categorical opposition to all forms of regulation. I just have a general preference for endogenously emerging one over exogenous statute. Remember we are discussing theory, not the actually existing mixed economy. Of course a Microsoft can and has happened under the latter, though legal action also took place.

Nor was that a "No True Scotsman" reply. It's straightforward history. The Hamiltonian program prevailed over Jeffersonian democracy.

Granted, you're failing to draw a distinction between the state and government in the abstract sense of having governance. I would dispute alternate forms of governance being less transparent. If anything, the principle of subsidiarity by which issues of governance should be handled at the most localized and decentralized level would ensure greater transparency and a more effective participation.

"Consumer protection" has been handled by trade associations, private standards bodies and other institutions for centuries. Modern states have largely not devised any particularly new or innovative approaches, merely shifted the ownership thereof.