The role and scope of the public sector and state sector are often the biggest distinction regarding the economic positions of socialist, liberal and libertarian political philosophy.
Socialists
editIn general, socialists favor a large state sector consisting of state projects and enterprises, at least in the commanding heights or fundamental sectors of the economy (although some socialists favor a large cooperative sector instead).
Social Democrats
editSocial democrats tend to favor a medium-sized public sector that is limited to the provision of universal programs and public services[1].
Economic libertarians
editEconomic libertarians and minarchists favor a small public sector with the state being relegated to protecting property rights, creating and enforcing laws and settling disputes, a "night watchman state".