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New Lesson in Free Enterprise Online Course Delves into Private Property

May 9, 2025
Graphic depicting "Private Ownership" with crops and the text: "Each person is entitled to control the fruits of their own labor," on a blue background.

Northwood University has unveiled a new video lesson titled “Private Property” as part of its complimentary online course, The Philosophy of Free Enterprise.

“Next to our right to life, private property may be one of the most essential human rights,” explains Dr. Dale Matcheck, David E. Fry Endowed Professor in Free Market Economics and presenter of the newest lesson in Northwood’s online course about the importance of business, limited government, and rule of law, the ethical foundations of capitalism, the meaning of free enterprise and how it benefits us, and how capitalism differs from other economic systems.

In his lecture, Dr. Matcheck uses a case study from China to provide context and present four of the most important benefits of private property.

“Private property promotes productivity and human flourishing — it is a natural human right,” Dr. Matcheck states.

This newest lesson appeals to learners from all educational levels and backgrounds. It includes an easily digestible lecture that’s less than 10 minutes long and incorporates helpful animation and engaging dialogue.

Learners enrolled in the Philosophy of Free Enterprise course can test their knowledge and access thought-provoking supplemental reading material following each lesson. Upon completing the course, learners will earn a certificate of completion.

To access each lesson’s lecture, the following are available to watch on Northwood University’s YouTube channel:

A Time Traveler’s Brief History of Progress

Innovation & Innovism

Vocation of Business

Constitution, Rules, and Games

Entrepreneurship

Prices, Knowledge, & Incentives

America is Not a Democracy

Make a Law, Light a Match

Rights from the Start

Freedom and Equality

Civil Society

America’s Debt Crisis

Inflation

Knowledge, Prices & Incentive

Free Trade or Perfectionism?

Economic Freedom

Private Property

The videos and Philosophy of Free Enterprise online course are possible thanks to the principal donors behind this effort: Donald S. Gottwald, a 1988 alumnus, and his wife, Pamela. Thanks also goes to the Thomas F. and Harriet S. Oakley Family Trust for their generous gift.

Donors who value liberty, the American free-enterprise system, and the creation of leaders who drive economic and social progress may consider a gift to Northwood University. Visit our giving page or contact Northwood’s advancement office at (989) 837-4356.

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