Irrational popular fears of natural market monopolies have subsided somewhat in the last few decades. Although the recent prosecution of Microsoft demonstrated that a basic distrust of voluntary market processes survives in some quarters, that action was viewed with skepticism by many Americans, who recognize that even our highly regulated economy is becoming increasingly dynamic and competitive. IBM and similar corporate monoliths have been successfully challenged by competitors, while tiny upstart companies frequently surge to prominence, demonstrating that no business can "own" its market (unless granted monopolistic powers by government). Furthermore, even many of the most fervent enemies of capitalism today recognize that the fundamental instrument of monopolistic power is not the market, but government.
Business Licensing
Business licensing is a policy that coercively prohibits or discourages provision of certain goods or services by sellers outside of a designated class. In the free market, of course, buyers and sellers may find it worthwhile to establish accreditation or certification agencies. Seeking high product quality, buyers may choose to restrict their purchases to businesses that follow the training programs, inspections, or other requirements of the accrediting agency. Seeking to expand their market share, sellers may choose to meet those requirements. Compulsory licensing, which prohibits market exchanges that do not satisfy its mandates, must not be confused with such voluntary institutions of accreditation. 
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