From:

Only assuming you have infinite energy. And the processing capability to store all the required patterns. Although it's definitely an asset for starships (which one can readily be assumed to have both), since one only needs to carry the energy and information, rather than a secondary hull full of stores. Well, except for the spare replicators, power conduits, and emergency power supplies needed to replicate the spare parts to repair the replicator, information systems, and power supply so that you can get the replicator back on line in case of an accident so you can replicate the other material you need.

Although I think having cornucopia machines would be extremely damaging to a society, not because of any protestant work ethic, but rather I suspect that the constant example of mastercraftsmanship would be off-putting to those developing their art. Not to mention who chooses which works become part of the knowledge bank. Either that or you might get the following conversation instead:

"Computer! Pavlova, one slice, with kiwi fruit."

"We have 14,320 selections that meet that criteria. Which one would you like?"

beatrice_otter

Given the rapid development of solar cells and other technology, the Federation certainly has lots of energy available. Not infinite, but lots. And do remember that the Federation has a currency, of sorts: credits. What kind of credits, one asks?

Presumably replicator credits.

My assumption is that it works like this: everyone gets enough replicator credits to comfortably live on. You can get all the food/clothes/whatever you need. It won't be lavish and it won't be unique, but it will be decent. If you want something from outside the standard menu, or something bigger than you have credits for, you trade with someone or make it yourself or what have you. I bet there's a firm barter economy. What jobs do we see? Starfleet, scientists, artists. And lots of people have hobbies: they play music, or they grow gardens, or they cook, or whatnot. Those things are what you barter for the big-ticket specialty items that are beyond your general credit allowance.

I don't see the mastercraftsmanship issue as any more offputting than the use of recorded music is to people learning to sing/play music today.