When in conversation I put forward the idea of abolishing the income tax and the necessary reduction (or elimination) of welfare from the government, the most common response is, "But who will help those who are struggling?".

My response is that in a libertarian society with minimal taxation, individuals will become more philanthropic.

And in the case of cash mobs, in spite of impediments to philanthopy posed by high taxation rates and government-funded social welfare, people are coming together to support those in need. However, this is not mere redistribution of wealth: small local businesses provide intangible benefits (a familiar friendly face, a personal relationship), which larger businesses sacrifice for economies of scale and the stability of a franchise. It's a great idea and a perfect example of the beneficial creativity that a free market gives rise to.