What economic system is characterized by public ownership without private market options?

The answer is communism because this economic system is fundamentally defined by the principles of collective ownership and the absence of private property. In a communist economy, the means of production—such as factories, land, and resources—are owned collectively by the community or the state. The idea is to eliminate class distinctions and ensure that all members of society have equal access to resources and opportunities.

In contrast, socialism also emphasizes public ownership to varying degrees but may allow for some level of private enterprise and market options. Democracy refers primarily to a system of governance rather than an economic system and can coexist with various economic structures, including capitalism and socialism. Capitalism is characterized by private ownership and market-driven economies where individuals or corporations own businesses and make decisions about production and distribution, often focusing on profit as the primary motivator.

Thus, communism is the only option among the choices that embodies a system where public ownership is absolute, eliminating private market options entirely.