[privong]

Because government activity is generally mandated (both in the sense that they can compel people to change their behavior or that people can't refuse to contribute money towards government endeavours), while private sector activity is generally optional.

[guelo]

That's not the meaning of intervening. It means something like meddling. The point is that when businesses do something to the economy it is not called an intervention.

[kaonashi]

You are by no means forced to participate in any government activity (at least since the draft ended).

[privong]

People in the US are now forced to buy health insurance (or pay a fine/tax).

[kaonashi]

> (or pay a fine/tax)

Then you're not forced into one course of action.

[privong]

> Then you're not forced into one course of action.

You're being forced into parting with your money. So, yes, you are being forced into a course of action.

[kaonashi]

You are punished if you fail to fulfill your obligation, yes; but how you go about doing that is completely open to you. Hence freedom.

[jdbernard]

Sweet! Does that mean I'm OK if I stop paying my taxes?

[dkuntz2]

Ask Henry David Thoreau.

[kaonashi]

Taxes are an obligation, not government activity.

[adventured]

There are lots of examples where that's not true, forced selective service for adult males and social security registration at birth to name two.