I sit here icing my feet/knees after helping my friend and boss move their house today, usually I do this only after riding a bunch. Aging sucks in both one's health and the lacking of keeping up with the times. Since my posting skills also suck this follow up suffers in format. Here's some of my thoughts on the more interesting replies so far.

#2 Termv-Very good reply. Speaks to the heart of my question even if it would have had a failing grade for less critically thinking teachers (who had given this assignment) from not directly answering the question. Thanks as you got my vote.

#4 Hoopdriver- Another good reply and still no real answer.

#7 TiHabanero- The first reply to give a number. The 4% profit for the year end is what my shop saw plus/minus the varying nature of weather and economics of a local area. And how can I argue with someone who honors hot peppers in their handle (that's CB radio talk for name).

#9 Anklework- I think we're on the same page WRT the forces at play in business, even if the terms we use are different.

#13 Colnago Mixte- I assume this is satire. As even the government has to offer a positive cost/benefit ratio that the masses like. The comment about Tee shirts shows the commoditization of some goods, for better or worse.

#15 Quiglesnbits- Good comments if outside the control of the reseller or the buyer.

Thanks all for the time you took. It heartens me to hear many share my concerns. When I posted this I tried to not let my opinions seep through, I wanted to get you all to think and not merely react. (a quality that seems to be missing in our national intercourse these days). I had considered the subject line to be something like "just let me eat" but questioned the ability for many to get the reference.

I suspect this thread will wither on this vine soon enough. If I got one out here to ponder on their position in the world system I've done my job. Thanks again. Andy