Final answer:
Markets are structures composed of people or organisations that enable buying and selling activities. While the government does not necessarily provide funds and subsidies for markets to thrive, it plays a crucial role in creating and maintaining conditions that allow the free market to operate efficiently, including interventions to correct market failures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that is true of markets is "D. They are composed of people or organisations." Markets involve interactions among buyers and sellers, which may be individuals or organizations. These interactions facilitate the exchange of goods and services. While governments do not always provide funds and subsidies for a market to thrive (A), and consumers have agency and do not merely purchase products they do not need (B), it is also not true that they provide discounts for every consumer (C). Instead, markets operate on the principles of supply and demand, where prices are typically determined by market forces, although government intervention can sometimes influence these prices and market conditions, supporting the market structure and correcting market failures when necessary.
Government support is essential in creating and maintaining conditions for a free market to function efficiently. For instance, governments establish laws and regulations that protect property rights, enforce contracts, and ensure fair competition. These measures are vital to prevent monopolies and address negative externalities that might hinder a healthy market economy. Government investments in areas like education, infrastructure, and technology further contribute to capital deepening and technological growth, enhancing overall market productivity and efficiency.