Only two categories of monopoly exist - businesses that use the government to maintain their position, and businesses that earn their position. Examples: * AT

Only two categories of monopoly exist - businesses that use the government to maintain their position, and businesses that earn their position. Examples: * AT&T enjoyed a monopoly provided by the government; Alcoa did not. * Aesthetic questions of instruction set aside, Intel is similar to Alcoa in that they earned their spot through execution (and knowing what's important; it's only obvious in hindsight that having the newest and biggest fabs anywhere trumps design in this industry.) * Apple with iPod+iTunes. (Good) * Google with Gmail. (Good) * The United States Postal Service (Bad) * Rail service through government-run Amtrak (Bad)