Quebec is blessed in terms of the energy resources available on its territory. Most obviously, there is the province’s vast hydroelectric capacity, which produces 96% of its electricity. This month, the government made public a series of reports suggesting that it might soon be ready to move forward and allow oil development in the province. In light of this news, it is worth reconsidering some of Quebec’s energy choices to see which kinds of policies might enrich, rather than impoverish, Quebec taxpayers.

Four areas of the health care industry in Canada that are largely private and that work well.

The maple syrup monopoly in Quebec.

Northern Quebec overflows with mineral resources whose development could generate substantial economic activity. To derive benefits from these resources successfully, businesses, the government and local communities—many of which consist of Aboriginal populations—must collaborate in order for everyone to have an interest in the economic success of development projects.

Digital supplies and the tax system.

Safe transportation of oil.

Loto-Québec and the changing market.

Safe transportation of oil.

The idea of a "deep-freeze" on public spending.

In the years since the financial crisis of 2008, the free market has taken a beating in the marketplace of ideas. Yet the simple fact remains that the more economic freedom a government leaves in the hands of its people, the better off those people are, not only in terms of basic material well-being, but also in terms of social and individual indicators of human wellbeing. This Economic Note provides a brief overview of economic freedom around the globe.