Suchergebnisse

Argues that contemporary American trade policy contains 3 components. Policymaking is dominated by a belief in the efficacy of free trade, has a 'fair' trade component and a welfare component. Examines the origins of each of these key ideas, their inculcation into law and their contemporary effect on policy. Each policy type is characterized by a unique political process that gives rise to different models for who gets protectionism in the United States. (Abstract amended)

Frontmatter -- Contents -- Tables and Figures -- Preface -- 1. Ideas, Institutions, and the Politics of Protectionism -- 2. Generation and Selection: Antebellum Ideas, Politics, and the Tariff -- 3. Institutionalization: Putting Protectionism in Place, 187o-1930 -- 4. Reforming Institutions: The Liberalization of Trade Policy -- 5. The Pattern of Protectionism: Conflicting Rules, Conflicting Incentives -- 6. Ideas and American Foreign Policy -- Index

Origin and scope of legitimate claims for protectionism; based on conference paper. Contents: Understanding protectionism; The role of the state; The defense of fair trade; The idea of trade adjustment.

Nowhere is America's hegemonic decline more evident than in changing trade patterns. The United States trade balance, a measure of the international demand for American goods, is suffering historic deficits. Lowered demand for American goods has led to the under-utilization of both labor and capital in a growing number of traditionally competitive American industries. Conversely, Americans' taste for foreign goods has never been so great. Japanese cars, European steel, Third World textiles, to name a few, are as well produced as their American counterparts and arrive on the U.S. market at a lower cost.

The eve of a major multilateral trade negotiation is a time to meditate. This is not because the atmosphere is beauteous, calm and free. Nor is it about to become so because major governments, after years of haggling, are ready — more or less — to enter the round. Indeed, the Conventions of trade negotiation are antithetical to a calm and clear understanding of what combination of aspiration and realism will do most to improve the conditions of international trade. In such negotiations, the general objective — the reduction of trade barriers — is referred to as a concession to others. 'Standing firm' and other forms of negativism are praised. Brinkmanship is encouraged— at least among those strong enough to do damage.