How capitalism and free markets improve quality of life

Capitalism and free markets seem to get bad press in recent years, as reporters focus on the rare, but more sensational stories of business corruption, greed, and exploitation.  Yet, these same negative qualities also exist in government, non-profits, and education, as well as in totalitarian and socialist states.  Matt Ridley's entertaining book "The Rational Optimist" makes a strong case that free markets, trade, and capitalism have dramatically improved life for the common person, and are forces of good, not evil.  The video below provides a preview of the book.