Thursday, April 7, 2016

Is Comparative Advantage Dead?

OK.  So for two days we've been studying comparative advantage and the overwhelming message has been:  Trade is good!  Minimize opportunity cost.  Efficiently use resources.  Specialize in that which you do best, and life for everyone automatically gets better! 


So why then are political candidates from the left and the right criticizing NAFT and the TPP every chance they get?  Why do so many smart people dislike trade?  Did they not the comparative advantage packet, or is there more to it?


Read the article distributed in class, and consider some of the other factors that may muddy the waters on the gains from trade.  Analyze the arguments against a strict, comparative-advantage based trade policy and try to frame your discussion in light of the current political debate.  Feel free to inject your own views.


DUE MONDAY PERIOD 1

Monday, April 4, 2016

Reading Guide: Ch 38



Due Tues:


1.  Why do nations trade?   What arguments are made for "free trade" or at least "free-er trade"?
2.  What barriers to trade have historically been erected by nations (protectionist measures)?
3.  What arguments are made in favor of protectionism.  Be prepared to discuss each.