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Entry: They Are The Hollow Men Link: http://www.takimag.com/blogs/article/they_are_the_hollow_men#22508 Post contents: Why don't we just outlaw cars, so the buggy whip industry can get back on its feet. Face it folks, the world is much smaller. The US needs to adapt and compete, not close its borders. To the extent other countries aren't engaging in free trade, and subsidizing their manufacturers, the US should impose a tariff equal to the subsidy. With that proviso, free trade IS the best thing. It minimzes the costs of good to consumers. If I am spending my money I want the best prodcut for the best price. I don't think that makes me immoral. I think it makes me smart. If you choose to buy an American car, becuase you think it helps American manufacturing, do so. That's your perogative. However, to dictate that the US should impose large tariffs, to promote US manufacutring jobs is simply a form of wealth transfer, forcing US consumers to spend more. It's the same as the argument that Walmart is bad because it forces the mom and pop stores to close. The reason they close is that the same item COSTS MORE at the Mom and Pop than it does at Walmart. Neither I, nor anyone else, is responsible for the US manufacturers ills, unless it's the exec's at those companies, or the unions. If they can't compete, it's up to the shareholders to fire them, or someone else to form a company that can compete. Tariffs are not the answer. Sent at: 2008 08 08