The Cultural Yearnings That Tariffs Will Not Resolve

The Cultural Yearnings That Tariffs Will Not Resolve

In a world where everything is equal, tariffs would be unnecessary. Every place would have the same resources. Everyone would produce the same things at more or less the same price. Consumers would all desire the same products. This terrible world, where all things are equal, would be a bland globalized society of monotonous sameness. … Read more

Are the Tariffs Really About the Tariffs?

Are the Tariffs Really About the Tariffs?

These are times of deliberate dramatic change, as witnessed by the “Liberation Day” tariffs, which shook the world and introduced uncertainty into markets. Everyone is trying to make sense of this policy’s back-and-forth changes. Both opponents and supporters admit that it lacks a clear purpose and specific goals. This dramatic change is not a mere … Read more

This Is a Balanced Position on Tariffs and Protectionism

The trade war has ignited debate on the merits of tariffs and the need to protect the nation’s manufacturing base. Battle lines are drawn between an exaggerated localism that stresses self-sufficiency and a bloated globalism where products transit the Earth unhindered and markets alone rule. Those who adhere to a concept of self-sufficiency and protectionism … Read more

The Apples-and-Oranges Debate over Tariffs

The Apples-and-Oranges Debate over Tariffs

As I watch the debate over tariffs, I can’t help but feel the two sides are not speaking the same language. They are talking apples and oranges. One side is concerned only about money, while the other side deals with social impact. I don’t think this apples-and-oranges debate can be reduced to which path makes more … Read more