Best Animation Software

I want to buy an animation program, but I'm not sure which one to choose. Any advice?

2d- Flash

3d- 3DS Max 8 (costs alot though)

Yeah, people "buy" programs.

Yes. "buy" *cough*download*cough*

Oh thanx for all your help! lol, I will "buy" the program now, just like I bought Photoshop, Animation Shop 3, The whole Macromedia programs and Photoimpression 3! 😉