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The main goal of public goods is to provide benefits that everyone can access without exclusion. Public goods are defined by their characteristics of non-exclusivity and non-rivalry. This means that once they are provided, no one can be effectively excluded from using them, and one person's use does not detract from another's ability to use it.

Examples of public goods include national defense, public parks, and street lighting. Since these goods are designed to serve the collective needs of society without the intent of profit, the focus is primarily on ensuring that all individuals can benefit from them regardless of their personal circumstances. This principle underlies many public policy decisions, where the aim is to enhance the overall welfare of society through accessible services and resources.