Dani Rodrik replies on free trade

Here is his long post, his introduction reads as follows:

The question, if I understand is correctly, is whether I
think trade policy–and in particular trade policy which departs from free
trade–can ever do some good in a world where purely political motives and
rent-seeking are rampant.  My answer is
yes, but let me build my case point by point.

Here is one of his closing paragraphs:

…let me note the irony in how a discussion on free
trade among economists quickly ends up being a debate on its politics–that is,
a debate on whether this or that trade policy which on economic grounds is
actually desirable can also be politically feasible.  We are way beyond our area of expertise.  Your
hand-waving is as good as mine.

Here is my original query.  Read his whole response, comments are open, do let us all know what you think…

Comments

Comments for this post are closed