On the contrary, everyone can dream that they, too, will become a Bill Gates or a Nandan Nilekani. When such universal aspirations seem plausible, the system gains added democratic support. The rich, confidant of popular legitimacy, can then use the independence that accompanies wealth to limit arbitrary government, support rule of law, and protect democratic rights. Free enterprise and democracy sustain each other.
Looking forward, Japan's economy is likely to experience a sustained period of expansion with a virtuous circle of production, income, and spending in operation. There are various risks concerning future developments in Japan's economy. For example, although international commodity prices, primarily crude oil prices, have declined since posting record highs this summer, they still remain at high levels.