Probably the most exciting part of the World Series game on Saturday night occurred before the home plate umpire even shouted ‘play ball.' When 7-year-old Hailey Dawson threw out the ceremonial first pitch, she used a prosthetic hand that was made possible by a pair of devoted parents, some dedicated engineers, 3D printing – and the market economy.
The value of 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, is an effective rebuttal to those who see advanced technology as a threat. It is about as creative and destructive as creative destruction gets. It destroys some jobs, while creating others – and making life better for a lot of people. Moreover, the production process serves as a big proof point demonstrating that one can't get the benefits of capitalism without capital, and one can't raise capital without the potential for profit.
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