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…